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MitS. AVII.I.LVM CAr.KlJ IX)1{1N<J 






2 GLOUCESTER STREET 







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Selections from the Diaries of 

IVilliam ^ppleton 

1786-1862 



Boston 

Privately Printed 



922 



COPYRIGHT, 1922, BY SUSAN M. LORING 




fid 



D. B. UPDIKE • THE MERRYMOUNT PRESS • BOSTON 



^^>/^^ 



NOTE 

OUR ancestor William Appleton was a successful and 
well-knoiun merchant of Boston. It seems to me worth while 
to try to picture him to his descendants by means of the diaries 
which he kept for many years. 

I have tried to bring out the most salient and interesting parts 
of his life by selections from these diaries., but I find it impossible 
to present him to others as I ?ny self have come to know hifn through 
them. 

I'his book tells of his visits to his mother, of his visiting his 
sick children and friends who are sick, and of his suffering 
with them, and of his kindness to the relatives of his parents 
and to those of his wife; but his diaries tell of such loving deeds 
aver and over again. 

I'he book tells of his dinner parties, and of his many friends 
who came to the house; hut his diaries tell of his friends coming 
and going all the time, and much stress is laid on the love he has 
for his friends. 

The book tells of his devotion to the Church services, to those of 
his own particular church, and to its ministers, thus showing his 
deep appreciation of the Spiritual Life that they stood for; of his 
feelings of sinfulness and the searchings of his own heart; but his 
diaries tell of these acts and these thoughts over and aver again. 

Susan M. Loring 

A Granddaughter 
May, 1922 



^ 



\>:> 



CONTENTS 

PAGE 
EARLY LIFE, 1786-1832 3 

WINTER IN SICILY, 1816-1817 8 

DIARY JOTTINGS, 1818-1836 3I 

THE DIARY OF 1837-1862 52 



ILLUSTRATIONS 

William Appleton^ from a photograph Frontispiece 

House at 5^ Beacon Street facing page 6 

William Appleton 

from a miniature owned by Mrs. G. von L. Meyer 31 

House at Brook line 65 

William Appleton., from a portrait painted by Healy 1 33 

Trustees of Humane Society^ 18^8 209 



SELECTIONS FROM THE DIARIES 



EARLY LIFE: 1786-1832 

1832 

JANUARY. I regret much having given up the plan 
of keeping a memorandum of the passing events 
daily. It is possible some of my family may be inter- 
ested in knowing the following facts. I was born in the 
North Parish of Brookfield in the year 1786, November 
16th. My Father, the Revd Joseph Appleton, died in 
July, 1795/ leaving my Mother (formerly Mary Hook), a 
most energetic and excellent Woman, celebrated for wit 
and beauty, the latter lasted to old age, with Two sons and 
Three daughters and a property worth about four Thou- 
sand five hundred dollars, besides my mother's property, 
worth about the same. My mother sold the effects left by 
my father and removed to Hawke, Kingston, her native 
place, near Exeter, N. H., where she had an estate in- 
herited from^ her father, worth about Three Thousand 
dollars. In the year 1798 she Married Maj. Daniel Gould 
of Lyndborough, N. H., to which place We (the children) 
removed with her. My brother Phineas soon went into a 
Store, and I was sent to School at New Ipswich and After- 
wards to Francestown; in 1800 to Tyngsboro; the follow- 
ing year to Temple; I resided with Artemas Wheeler till 

' Aged 44, of typhus fever, called "Spotted fever," which he caught while min- 
istering to his people in their great need during an epidemic in the town, caused 
by the importation of infected rags used for manufacturing purposes. He was a 
graduate of Brown University. 
' Or given by. 



4 William Appleton [1832 

about nineteen to twenty years Old. I went into business 
in Temple with the property I inherited, amounting to 
about seven hundred dollars and two hundred I drew in 
a Lottery. At the end of the year I sold my Stock, having 
made about eight hundred dollars. Soon after, I came to 
Boston and for a time resided with How & Spear; they 
kept a West India Goods store. I went into business in 
1807 with N. Giddings; we kept at the Corner of India and 
Central Street, the only Store occupied in the Street; our 
business was the buying and selling of West India goods 
and Crockery ware, I continued with him in business till 
the autumn of 1809. Then considering myself worth about 
four thousand dollars Bought the Ship " Triumphant" at 
Salem, for five Thousand dollars, with Gassett, Upham & 
Co., and went in her to Fayal, where I had her put under 
Portuguese Colours, and she departed for Liverpool. I took 
passage in Mr. Heard's Ship with Mr. & Mrs. Bowdoin. 
On our arrival in the Channel, the wind being adverse, we 
landed at Kinsale; thence we went to Cork & Dublin, then 
to Holyhead & Liverpool. On my arrival I found my Ship 
had been captured by a French Privateer; but some two 
weeks after that, she was retaken and brought to Plymouth, 
where I went to take charge of my property. I remained 
in England till July when I embarked in the brig " Eliza," 
Capt. Gardner, with about ten thousand pounds of Goods, 
for account of myself & Parker, Appleton & Co. These 
goods and another importation I sold, and at the close of 
the year 1811 found myself worth about ten thousand dol- 
lars. I went from Philadelphia to North Carolina, where I 



1832] Early Life 5 

loaded two vessels with Naval Stores for England; from 
there I went to Charleston & then in the Ship " Ceres," Capt. 
Webber, I went to Liverpool, where I found an embargo 
was laid in the United States, which was considered pre- 
paratory to war with England. In June, 1812, 1 was in the 
House of Commons attending the debates, when it was 
announced that orders in Council which related to Ameri- 
can Ships would be modified or repealed, which was sup- 
posed to be the cause of difficulty between the two gov- 
ernments. I at once commenced the purchasing of goods, 
and within One Month had thirty thousand pounds of 
goods on the way or in preparation for the United States, 
when we were informed that War had actually been de- 
clared by the Government of the United States. This caused 
me much trouble & anxiety. In August I embarked for 
Boston in the Ship " Roxanna." When I got to Boston I 
found much distress and anxiety caused by the War. The 
most of the remainder of this year and a part of 1813 I 
passed in Philadelphia & Baltimore. When I had closed 
up my importations and settled with N. W. & C. H. Ap- 
pleton, I thought myself worth sixty Thousand dollars. I 
did not attend to any business of importance during the 
war till the Autumn of 1814. I engaged in a Matrimonial 
Speculation, the whole result of which is not ascertained. 
In January, 1815, I was married.^ Soon after. Peace was 
made between this Country and Great Britain, which 
caused universal joy. In the Spring of 1815 I laid plans 

* Jan. 9, 1 8 1 5, m. Mary Ann Cutler, daughter James and Mehitable Cutler and 
granddaughter Gov. James Sullivan. 



6 William Appleton [1832 

for future Business. Commenced the building of the ships 
"Telegraph," "Courier," and afterwards "Minerva." Be- 
fore they were finished I was attacked by the dispepsey, so 
called. With these difficulties I contended till the Autumn; 
when in November I embarked for Charleston, where I 
passed the Winter. I returned in a much worse State than 
I left. The Summer was passed in travelling, a most mis- 
erable existence; very great irritability, but God knows, 
not without great suffering. In the Autumn I embarked 
with My Wife & Dr. James for the Mediterranean. A par- 
ticular account of the voyage & journey may be found in 
another Manuscript. We passed the Winter in Sicily, then 
went to Rome, Paris, London and embarked in the Au- 
tumn of 1817 for Charleston, where we passed the Winter. 
In April following we returned to Boston, much improved 
in health. During my absence I expended about ten thou- 
sand dollars, which sum I made in shipments from Sicily 
to the United States & England, and in goods from Eng- 
land to Charleston. In the year 1818 and summer of 1819 
we lived at Lodgings; in the autumn of 1819 I purchased 
the House ^ in which I have since lived from Mr. Nathan 
Appleton at ^14,000 & $1000 for Glasses, Carpets, etc. 
This year I went into business with Messrs. Paige & Chase, 
which continued six years. I made by that concern about 
thirty thousand dollars and carried on considerable busi- 
ness on my individual account, my health feeble, yet able 
to attend to Business. 

After dissolving with Paige & Chase, I went consider- 

' 54 Beacon Street, now owned by Mrs. George von L. Meyer. 




3-^ t/^£^r<^>7i- S^/l-Be/r 



1832] Early Life 7 

ably into the Manufacturing business, and by the advance 
on Stocks, purchases and Sales I made considerable money. 
But I have nearly paid my family expenses by participat- 
ing in Commissions with Southern Houses; my purchases 
with Prince, Ward, King & Co., etc., etc. My property has 
increased every year since I have been in Business except 
the year 1829. 

January 1st, 1829, I thought myself worth ^200,000; 
1830, More effects than in 1829 but property depreciated, 
1 180,000; 1831, 1280,000; 1832, $330,000. 

My success in business is uncommon, no man in Boston 
of the Age, I am forty-five, has made as much, and only 
one, David Sears, possesses as much probably. My repu- 
tation, I fancy, stands much higher than it deserves as a 
man of talents, but I do not wish or intend to undeceive 
the Publick. 



WINTER IN SICILY: 1816-1817 

1816 

SEPTEMBER 30^^ Monday. A pleasant morning; 
rose early and went to my Store to make prepara- 
tion for sailing in the Ship " Roxanna" for the Medi- 
terranean. At two o'clock, Mrs. Appleton & myself went 
on board with Dr. James & Mr. Porter, to be our fellow 
passengers. Mother, Mr. & Mrs. William Sullivan, Mr. 
& Mrs. Nathan Appleton, Sarah & Harriet Cutler accom- 
panyed us to the ship to see us embark. Mr. Rice & Mr. 
Tilden went with us to the Narrows. My feelings on sep- 
arating from our friends can much easier be imagined than 
described. My spirits are good, and much strengthened by 
seeing my wife show so much fortitude on the occasion; 
she has hardly shed a tear. We are now at Anchor in the 
narrows, seven miles from Boston. 

OCTOBER H^ "Tuesday. Light east wind; we remain 
at Anchor. The Captain is getting everything in 
order for the voyage. I do not feel in as good spirits as 
yesterday; although I think I shall return to my native 
Country, yet I am aware that is not the impression of my 
friends generally; I am weak and only able to take very 
little food. I think of giving up my present diet of beef 
and trying milk; I am in hopes that I shall be able to 
eat more then. I have done of late with, say 4 oz. of beef 
and a small biscuit in the whole day. My present weight 



i8i6] Winter in Sicily 9 

is 103 lbs. Wednesday^ 2«< At twelve o'clock the ship got 
under way; we have a pleasant day as to the weather, — 
but the reverse is my feeling when 1 recollect that the wind 
is wafting us fast from our dear friends. I have eaten more 
than usual this day, consisting of milk and figs, and drank 
two glasses of wine, the first I have tried for a long time. 
Thursday, lo'^^ Commenced eating rice and Herring; I have 
done with wine and milk. Friday, 18"'^ The wind from the 
east, pleasant weather; ate rice & mutton. I am consider- 
ably troubled with my feet swelling; it commenced about 
ten days since to a considerable degree; I had something 
of it before we left Boston. Saturday, 19''''. Took a little milk 
with rice in the morning and Pork and rice for dinner with 
some gin. My feet much swollen, very much, otherwise pretty 
well. I am getting out of conceit of Gin. Monday, 2H^ Our 
dear boy's birthday. Lat. 37°: 14'; Long. 37°: 05'. Ate two 
onions, and no inconvenience came from them. Wednes- 
day, 2ord, I eat Pork & rice pretty well. The Captain says we 
have very uncommon weather; the wind continues East; 
we have not made 100 miles on our passage in twelve days. 
Friday, 25'^^ I was induced to try some baked beans; Dr. 
James said a patient of his was able to eat them when very 
weak; I do not find any ill effects from them. Sunday, 27"^. 
We are much pleased to find ourselves getting on. I fancy 
I have picked a little too much food from the Cook. Wednes- 
day, of)f^'. Wind North. Spoke a brig from Baltimore. 



N 



OVEMBER 2«^, Saturday. I feel sick and irritable; 
ate very little mutton & rice and drinking nothing. 



lo William Appleton [1816 

Sunday, ord^^T^Q^^ the ship" Lancaster "fromMadeira, Long. 
15°, Lat. 36": 52'. My feet and legs so much swelled that 
I cannot get on any stocking or pantaloons without rip- 
ping them open; I do not know how to account for it, I 
cannot walk, nor hardly stand. Monday, ^t^. A gale of wind 
from the S. West. "Tuesday, ^'^. We laid our ship to the wind 
all the last night. We are not willing to run, the weather 
being thick, as we think we are nigh Cape St. Vincent. 
Wednesday, ()'^. We lay in to the wind; bad weather, very 
unpleasant. We were spoken by a Patriot Privateer. We 
find ourselves nearly two hundred miles from the land. 
'Thursday. Wind North West; going 8 miles. Ate very little 
and feel pretty well. Friday, 8'''^. Delightful day, we passed 
Cape Spartel at midnight. Saturday, (^f^. At sunrise, we were 
abreast of Gibraltar. The appearance of the rock more than 
equalled my expectations, Algeciras — a pretty looking 
Town, in sight at the same time. After passing the Straits 
the sail was delightful; the mountains very high, they have 
a barren appearance; one, higher than the rest, hove in 
sight when we were thirty miles from Gibraltar and con- 
tinued in sight till we had sailed one hundred & seventy 
miles; the top covered with snow. We sailed in sight of the 
Coast of Spain all this day, occasionally seeing the Coast 
of Africa. I have never felt a similar feeling that I now 
have; the immense Mountains with their hoary tops con- 
nected with the idea of entering the seas famed for a variety 
of circumstances in Ancient history, and the idea of hav- 
ing the Old World on each side, seemed to demand a rever- 
ence not \isu2i\.Sunday, lo'^. The land at a distance of about 



i8i6] Winter in Sicily ii 

forty miles has a very grand appearance; the sky very clear 
and beautiful. Monday^ W^k Rather cold. Sky very clear; 
the tops of the Mountains in Europe and Africa are to be 
seen at the same time; they have a sublime appearance. I 
have been more interested in reading the writings of Saint 
Paul within the two days past than ever before. I can di- 
vest myself of the idea of their having been written a very^ 
very long time ; the situation makes them appear new to 
me. 400 Miles from Gibraltar. I never saw the atmosphere 
as clear; the Mountains tower almost to the Heavens; the 
coasts of Europe and Africa are in sight; their appearance 
connected with my feelings from this situation carries me 
back a thousand years. IVednesday, 13''^. We are out of sight 
of the land, and nothing interesting; ate mutton and arrow- 
root. Friday, 15'^'. The sea short and unpleasant. At even- 
ing saw the Island of Sardinia; I feel quite smart. Satur- 
day, 16^^. North Wind &cold. Sardinia in sight. This day 
commences my thirty-first year; to look back on the last 
year I find it checkered with much pain and pleasure. I do 
not know anything to accuse myself of, except giving way 
to my irritable feelings, and then by treating my friends 
with impoliteness and servants with rudeness, but I hope 
and trust that as I gain my health, I shall then have com- 
mand of my feelings. Two hundred miles from Palermo. 
Sunday, 1 7^^^ The day delightful. At six o'clock made the 
Island of Sicily; we passed the high barren Mountains 
with much rapidity; the appearance of the Hills was noble, 
at sunset. We had an anxious evening. At 1 1 o'clock we 
came to Anchor in the Harbour of Palermo; Our Captain 



12 William Appleton [1816 

Blake was quite out of sorts. Monday, iS'-'^ Went on shore 
to the Health Officer, and all hands at 3 o'clock p.m. 'T^ues- 
day, \(^t^K Went again to the Health Officer. Ate some figs, 
bread & butter and do not feel well. Cold Morning; Then 
58^ snow on the Mountains. 20''''. Palermo, in Quarantine. 
I ate a bunch of Grapes at 12 o'clock by the advice of Dr. 
James; after dinner I drank two glasses of Grape Wine, 
which in a few minutes brought on a severe pain. By an 
application of flannels, hot bricks, etc., the pain was par- 
tially removed in a few hours, and I went to sleep under 
the effect of laudanum. 'Thursday, ivK I am more com- 
fortable than yesterday, but confined to my bed mostly. 
Friday, 22«< I am very weak; the swelling in my legs has 
almost entirely left me; I am confined to the Cabin. 23'"< 
Quarantine. A very warm wind, south east, they say it is 
something of the Sirocco. I am much oppressed by the heat. 
Dr. James recommends a course of Calomel. I began tak- 
ing ii^ grains with Opium. Monday, 25'-^. Very tired of 
the ship. 'Tuesday, 2t^^K I took a shower-bath for the first time 
for several days, no ill-effects from it; I am very irritable 
and weak. During our passage I have been in the habit of 
taking a shower-bath every morning at four o'clock and 
then going to bed. Saturday, op^^. I took 35 drops of lau- 
danum last night and slept well. 

DECEMBER 3^^^, Tuesday. I am not as well as yester- 
day, I am so weak as to be hardly able to keep out 
of bed. Wednesday, 4'^. Took some laudanum in the morn- 
ing to regulate my stomach, I have taken the oil of cin- 



i8i6] Winter in Sicily 13 

namon for several days. We are happy in being told that 
we are to leave the Ship tomorrow. Mr. & Mrs. Chabot 
called to see us. T^hursday, ^'^. At }4 past ten, after an ex- 
amination by the Physicians and considerable demur we 
obtained Pratique. Mr. Chabot took us to Page's Hotel. 
6^^. Mr. Ingham called; offered his House, Carriage, etc., 
to us. Dr. Patranagio called to see me; he seems an intel- 
ligent man, and I think understands my complaints. He 
says the mutton of Sicily is not good, wishes me to eat 
beef and game and more light food such as Arrow root, 
and drink a little coffee and try wine. Saturday, j^^. A very 
wet day. I went in Mr. Ingham's carriage with Mr. Por- 
ter to look for a house. I feel better for the excursion. 
Wednesday, 1 1'^K Dr. Patranagio called to see me. I am not 
allowed to go out of my room; he says my complaints 
are debility, and nothing else. Friday, 13'^'. Rode with Dr. 
James and Mrs. Appleton to the Palace Favorita, which is 
built in the Chinese style, rather finical in its appearance ; 
it is the, or one of the country residences of the King. The 
ride is very pleasant to it, and in the same neighbour- 
hood are several very fine Palaces. Saturday, 14'^'. We went 
to La Bagaria, I was delighted beyond expression; the 
beauty of the place and my sensations would be equally 
impossible for me to describe. One Palace, built by a ro- 
mantic Prince, which was surrounded by the statues of 
monsters, was the most striking; the elegance of the apart- 
ments and the rich manner of their being furnished would 
lead one to suppose that Art attempted to vie with Nature, 
which in beauty of prospect, richness of soil and high state 



14 William Appleton [1816 

of cultivation exceeds anything I have ever seen or could 
have imagined. The view of the surrounding country and 
the Bay of Palermo appears to the greatest advantage from 
the observatory of the palace. Sunday, 15'^^. We rode towards 
Parco, through interesting country; the soil in a high state 
of useful cultivation, but not highly ornamented as the 
grounds contiguous to La Bagaria; the scenery is as ro- 
mantic as any Lady could wish. 'Tuesday, \']th. Mrs. Apple- 
ton, Mr. Porter, Doctor James & myself went to Monreale, 
which is situated about five miles from Palermo on the 
side of the Mountain. You ascend by a Z road made by 
the Government. The view from this place is very exten- 
sive and Hke all others that leave the valley of Palermo, 
very beautiful. There is an extensive Convent in the place 
kept in excellent order; the number of Priests attached 
to it is two hundred. In the Convent is a most valuable 
painting by a native of the village, done about one hun- 
dred years since; the subject is King William discovering 
the hidden treasure of his father, which was deposited to 
build the Church in that Town. The Picture belongs to 
the Church which has been much celebrated for its extent 
and for the four walls being constructed of mosaic of no 
common kind. The Church has been nearly destroyed 
within a few years by fire. We found the Priests disposed 
to be attentive to us. iS''^. Went to the silk manufactory 
and were much pleased; this establishment belongs to the 
Sicilian Government; About five hundred poor persons 
are employed in this institution (as it was originally in- 
tended as a hospital) under the direction of Nuns; this 



i8i6] Winter in Sicily 15 

establishment is connected with the Manufactory. 'Thurs- 
day, 19'^'. Dined at Mr. Ingham's, a handsome dinner; Mr. 
Porter, James, Mr. & Miss Prior and an Austrian Am- 
bassador was our party. A person unacquainted with this 
sort of cattle might have mistaken him for a gentleman, 
yet often he shows the cloven foot. Miss Prior seems a good 
little woman, dejected, not handsome, about twenty-eight 
and cut out for a spinster. Mr. Prior I like pretty well; 
he seems kind but very narrow-minded, a small man in 
every respect. Friday, lo*^. Mr. Hardman, Dr. James, 
Mrs. Appleton and myself went to see some of the prin- 
cipal churches which for size and elegance surpassed any 
I have ever seen. The expense of building them must have 
been immense. The Mother Church, or Cathedral, was 
built about eleven hundred years since. In this Church 
are deposited the bodies of several Kings in Coffins of 
Porphyry. Roger the first was laid there in 1137; they 
have a very rich appearance. I was much fatigued with 
walking through the Churches. Mrs. A. went with the 
gentlemen to the Prsetor's Hall and the Palace on the 
Marina. Sunday, 22«^. Pleasant, but cold. Rode with my 
wife & Dr. James to the Prince Regent's Palace and went 
through the gardens. The view of the City, the Ocean and 
the valley is beautiful and more extensive than from any 
other point I have yet been. We met the Prince who very 
politely took off his hat to us, a compliment to us as 
strangers. Wednesday, 25^^'. Rode to the King's Palace & 
Mr. Ingham's place; dined at Mr. Chabot's. We had a 
pleasant party and a good dinner, but Mrs. Appleton & 



i6 William Appleton [1816 

myself were thinking too much of our friends in Boston 
to enjoy our Christmas dinner from them, lihursday^ 2b^^. 
A stupid fellow by the name of Smith of Philadelphia and 
myself rode to the top of the Mountain, about four miles 
above Parco, from which you may have a most perfect 
view of the whole valley from Monreale to Monte Pelle- 
grino, the City & the Ocean, while Parco seems under your 
feet. Friday, 27^^. We passed the evening at Mr. Chabot's, 
where we had some fine musick by a Spanish gentleman, 
Mrs. A. delighted. Saturday, 28'^'. Mr. & Mrs. Chabot ac- 
companied us to the King's Palace to see the Representa- 
tion of the Shepherds going to find our Saviour. The ap- 
pearance of the Country, flocks. Peasantry, Cottages, all 
together was well done and had a very fine effect. The work 
was executed at Naples, at the expense of Ten Thousand 
dollars, paid by the Prince Regent. It was about 100 feet 
long and some of the Mountains 15 to 20 feet high. It was 
constructed mostly of Cork. Although the effect was pretty, 
I could not think there was anything that carried solem- 
nity, but it rather struck you as a puppet show. The figures 
were well done and some of the faces very expressive; the 
Costumes of the People very neatly done. Monday, 30'^'. I 
rode in the morning to the Ship, on a Jack. Tuesday, 31^'. 
Mrs. A. & self dined at Mr. Hardman's,a good sort of man. 
This day ends a year in which I have suffered much from 
ill-health and anxiety. My health has been uniformly bad, 
my spirits much depressed, I have not been useful to my- 
self or my friends, but troublesome to both. I often discover 
pity in those about me, but I fear I have made no friends. 



1817] Winter in Sicily 17 



.817 

JANUARY p', Wednesday. Palermo. This year com- 
mences with a most dehghtful morning, the Air very 
clear. I do not begin the year in very good spirits, I fear I 
am doomed to be a poor creature. Could I be freed from 
irritabiHty, I should be relieved of much pain and morti- 
fication; I suffer more in this way than from any other 
cause. I am daily promising myself that I will improve, but 
my success has been so little that I am almost discouraged, 
yet I will not give up the hope of being useful to my 
friends and having the command of my feelings. I rode this 
morning as usual, and passed the evening at Mr. Chabot's, 
where all the English society of the City were assembled, 
some thirty or forty. 'Thursday, 2"< I rode to the Ship" Rox- 
anna" and a few miles into the Country. We dined at Mr. 
Gates', where we met a pleasant party of fourteen persons, 
all English. We passed the evening there, played whist, 
returned home at eleven o'clock. I have not felt well; kept 
up by stimulating & society; — went to bed quite ill, some 
fever and pain in my back. Friday^ o^^. I do not feel as if 
I could walk. I fear I am getting down. Mr. Le Mesury 
called to take me to drive with him in his gig. After driv- 
ing about one mile, I was attacked with a severe pain in 
my right kidney; by the time I got home the pain was so 
severe that I doubted whether I could survive any con- 
siderable time. Dr. Webber was called; he administered 
Opium, hot brandy, an injection of Oil, Honey, salt & 



i8 William Appleton [1817 

water, I had hot bricks put to my feet and back and a 
change of hot flannels continually till twelve o'clock when 
I fell into a doze; while the spasms were the most severe my 
pulse was quite stopped. I never before felt pain like what 
I experienced this day; Dr. Webber said in my presence 
that without relief, I could not live twenty minutes. Satur- 
day^ 4'^'. I found myself better than I expected, and felt 
quite easy till two o'clock when I was attacked as the day 
before. When the pain first commenced, I could not believe 
that I should be able to bear the pain I was threatened 
with; similar remedies were applied as those of yesterday, 
and in about twelve hours I got relief; the attack was by 
no means as severe as the first. Sunday^ ^(^. I remained in 
bed this day, most of my friends called to see me. I was 
too weak to sit up. Monday, 6^^i. Mr. Chabot took me to 
ride on the Marina; I was not out more than half an hour; 
the day most delightful, the sky clear beyond comparison 
with any I ever saw in America; the thermometer stands 
from 58° to 62° Generally. Wednesday, 8'^^. The tops of the 
Mountains are quite white with snow; it is a very wet, 
uncomfortable day. T'hursday, c^'^. Anniversary of our wed- 
ding day. My spirits pretty good. Mr. & Mrs. Chabot & 
Mr. & Mrs. Oates passed the evening with us and a few 
Gentlemen joined us in a game at whist. Mrs. Oates was 
delivered of a fine son after she returned home. Saturday, 
\V^. I passed a bad night. My pulse from 75 to 100 in 
the minute. I am alarmed lest I have diabetes coming on, 
my Physicians say they fear it. Sunday, W^. This is a great 
day through Italy, the birthday of Ferdinand. I feel pretty 



iSiy] Winter in Sicily 19 

well, but not able to go out. There was much show at 
Court this day; we thought our friend Porter not a little dis- 
appointed in not having an opportunity to show his lace 
Coat, but unfortunately he had no invitation. He expected 
to have been taken by the hand by the Nobility immedi- 
ately on his arrival and refused English society, on the be- 
lief that he should find the Sicilians more pleasing, but he 
must associate with the English or have no society here. 
They have a bad opinion of Mercantile men and no wish 
for their acquaintance unless they can make something by 
them. Wednesday^ i^^^. The Ship "Sally Ann" arrived 
which gave us much pleasure. We have letters from many 
of our dear friends, all well & give us pleasing intelligence. 
I never experienced more anxiety than from the time of 
her arrival till I got my letters, but was fully paid in re- 
ceiving them. Mr. George Hinckley & Lt. Guisinger came 
as passengers in the "Sally Ann." I find myself very weak 
and nervous; My good Wife has a sorry time with me; I 
hope for a change soon. 'T'hursday^ 16'^^. We have a violent 
gale of wind from the West with rain; we are all confined 
within the walls of the house. I have amused myself in 
reading the letters and Papers rec^^ by the " Sally Ann." 
Mr. & Mrs. Chabot passed the evening with us at a game 
of whist. Saturday, 18'^'. Mrs. Appleton went to the Opera 
with Mrs. Chabot. Monday, 20^^'. Writing letters to go by 
the "Roxanna." Sirocco wind; the air is very clear and 
pleasant yet one feels languid with this wind, it affects the 
spirits and feelings of everyone. Wednesday, 22"< I find 
myself very weak, hardly able to sit up; fatigue is very 



20 William Appleton [1817 

bad for me, it throws me on my back at once. Mrs. Apple- 
ton accompanied Mr. & Mrs. Chabot, Mr. Porter and Dr. 
James to the Mountain; on its top is the tomb of St. Ro- 
saha, which they went to see. We all dined together and 
played whist in the Evening. The " Roxanna" sailed. Sun- 
day, 26'^'. Rode to Mr. Ingham's place at Rocco.We found 
it very pleasant and are almost determined to go there to 
reside. We then went to the garden of the Prince of Aci, 
the Prsetor of Palermo; he was very polite in shewing us 
his grounds and his Pheasantry which contained some hun- 
dred Pheasants; they looked beautifully. He invited us to 
sup at his box at the Opera, being a Masquerade evening. 
I have not felt as well for some time, as this day. Monday, 
ly^K Made up our minds to remove to Rocco and are 
engaged in making preparations for so doing. Wednesday, 
29'^. Took up our bed and Marched to Rocco, four miles 
from Palermo, Capt. Blake accompanied us. I have great 
faith in a change of air. I am fully persuaded that I am to 
get well at Rocco. Friday, o^vK Dr. James sailed for Naples 
in the "Sally Ann." 

FEBRUARY H^ Saturday. Engaged in putting our 
house in order. "Thursday, 6'^'. Went with Mr. Ingham 
to the Prsetor to purchase some wheat and Oil. The Prince 
we found quite a man of business and much of the cunning 
of the Sicilian in his countenance, yet he is a fine looking 
man. Friday, y^K Went to the City as usual with Mrs. Ap- 
pleton. Went to see the Prince of Aci who paid the Ameri- 
cans many compliments; he is much of a democrat. I rec^ 



1817] Winter in Sicily 21 

a letter from Gen' Harper enclosing letters of introduc- 
tion; I was much pleased by his attention. 'T'uesday, ii'^^ 
The French Frigate sailed for Naples. Friday, i^^^K I have 
not seen so stormy a night as the last since we have been 
at Rocco, the north side of the house is covered with snow. 
Dined by ourselves for the first time. Saturday, 15'-''. Wrote 
letters by the "Fanny." Sunday, 16'^. Mr. & Mrs. Chabot 
dined with us, we are much pleased with them, they are 
well-bred people and very attentive to us, Monday, ly^K 
Thunder and Hail, very violent. Mrs. Appleton accom- 
panied Mr. & Mrs. Chabot to a Ball; we dined at Mr. Cha- 
bot's and slept at Page's. Wednesday, 19'^. Dined at Mr. 
Wood's, where we met Mr. & Mrs. Chabot and some half 
dozen Bachelors, a pleasant party. Mr. Wood is an excel- 
lent Scotchman. Friday, IVK Charming morning; Rode on 
horseback a little way and went to the City and made calls 
with Mrs. A. Wednesday, i^t^K Went to the City, "Sally Ann" 
arrived from Naples ; I went on board, weighed 97 lbs. 

MARCH 2"'^, Sunday. Went with a large party on 
board the "Sally Ann," where we had a splendid 
Collation given by Capt. Blake to the Praetor; Mr. & Mrs. 
Oates, Mr, Wood & Porter dined with us. Wed?iesday, ^^^. 
I feel very weak in consequence of eating too many figs. 
Friday, y^K Dined by ourselves, quite cosy & pleasant. Mon- 
day, \Q)^Ik Went to the City; wrote Eben^ by the " Neptune" 
for Liverpool. Tuesday, i V'k I called with Mr. Wood on the 
Baron Acita and went to the Glass factory with them. Fri- 

^ Appleton. 



22 William Appleton [1817 

day^ 14'^. We went to the Convent of Capuchins, where 
the bodies of Monks are preserved; some have been there 
it is said one thousand years. Saturday^ i K^th^ Wet, gloomy 
morning. Rode to the City, but did not remain long; re- 
turned to my wife who was quite alone. 16''^. We rec^ 
letters from London from Mrs. Amory, we were much 
pleased; I never saw my good wife more delighted. Wednes- 
day^ 19'^. I was invited to dine with the Prince of Aci, the 
Praetor, but did not go, as the weather is not pleasant. 
'Thursday, lo^^K Baron Acita came to see us. We have not 
had so bad weather this winter before as at Present. Fri- 
day^ 1VK Mrs. Appleton & myself went to the City, as 
usual rode on the Marina. Wednesday^ 26^^^. Raining with 
Thunder in the morning. I went to Mr. Chabot's to say that 
we would not accompany them to see the Bishop laid out 
in State, as Mrs. A. had a cold. I took a ride to the Church 
and finding the show worth looking at, I returned and 
took Mrs. Appleton to see the dead Bishop. On our arri- 
val at the Church we met some difficulty in getting admit- 
tance. An Officer came out and ordered the soldiers to let 
us pass, seeing we were strangers. On getting into the 
Church I was struck very sensibly with the peculiar ap- 
pearance of the objects before me. Over the door of the 
Church (S. Francisco di Paolo) was hung a black cloth, let- 
tered with gold giving the birth, age, etc., of the deceased 
Bishop. The interior of the Church was completely cov- 
ered within the Pillars with black velvet curtains trimmed 
with gold. In front was a Mausoleum, or Temple in the 
Grecian style; this was erected about half the height of the 



1817] Winter in Sicily 23 

wall of the Church and splendidly ornamented with black 
lace and gold trimmings. In the centre of this Temple was 
placed the body of the Bishop dressed in rich robes, with 
a white wig on his head; holding in his hand a Mitre (an 
insignia of office) — behind the curtain stood some persons 
occasionally waving banners of white silk over the head 
of the corpse, the persons not being visible; it had the ap- 
pearance of some celestial movement as was intended it 
should. The body was placed in an easy chair, or throne, 
in a position that one would take who was inclined to Sleep 
or doze. The Mausoleum was covered by a canopy run- 
ning to a point at the top, to a height nearly as great as 
that of the Church, made of velvet; this canopy was sur- 
rounded by eight rows of lights so placed, so arranged, as 
the blaze only was visible, and had the appearance of so 
many stars surrounding the canopy; there were one hun- 
dred and fifty of these stars. The sides and front of the 
Church were illuminated in the same manner; there were 
more than a thousand lamps lighted. On the sides of the 
Church were erected stages to come forward equal with 
the curtains or hangings, for the musicians; on both sides 
were the musicians placed, at least two hundred in num- 
ber, and mass saying at the different altars behind the cur- 
tains, for the benefit of his soul. The music was solemn and 
exquisitely fine; I think it far exceeded anything of the 
kind I ever heard before. Next to the Mausoleum was 
seated the person who would succeed the late Bishop, and 
the Priests next to him, in order according to their age. 
They were dressed in white broadcloth cloaks, elegantly 



24 William Appleton [1817 

trimmed with lace. Their equipages were as elegant as any 
I have seen in Palermo; they drove four black, horses, each 
with coachman and footman dressed in livery of white 
with buff lace. The Church was much crowded, mostly 
with Priests, dressed agreeable to their different orders, 
some in black, some in white and some in grey. (So this 
world goes, as Meg Merrilies says.) The scene caused very 
solemn feeling without disgust; all was perfectly decorous 
and nothing could be more splendid. The Bishop's name 
was Iroda. He died very rich, they say by pilfering the 
charities put in his hands for Charity. Why can man desire 
pomp and show over his Clay when his character bears such 
stains? Thursday, 27'^'. Chevalier Auter, Mr. & Mrs. Chabot 
accompanied us to the Observatory on the King's Palace 
to see the Astronomical apparatus of Professor Piazzi who 
is considered the first in his line in Europe. (He has dis- 
covered two planets.) We were well paid for a tedious 
walk; the apparatus is very extensive and elegant. One of 
the Telescopes was made by Ramsden the present Pro- 
fessor, the only one of the kind ever finished; it is consid- 
ered invaluable. It is situated on the top of the dome of 
the King's Palace (apparently), but actually on a marble 
platform twelve feet square laid on a base of its size, built 
of large stone in the most compact manner from the 
ground: its height is upwards of two hundred feet. There 
were very many things of the kind to interest any person 
who knew their value better than myself His library is 
very interesting. His appearance was very peculiar and 
interesting. After having ascended more than two hundred 



1817] Winter in Sicily 25 

feet we were led by the Baron to a Parlour where sat the 
Old Philosopher over a brazier of coals with all the com- 
forts we have nearer the earth; on a waiter at the side of 
the room sat on a table a set of China ware, a tea set, on 
the right of which was a liqueur case; by the fire a plain 
sofa and six or eight chairs distributed about the room; in 
a recess, his bed with white curtains before it; adjoining 
this parlour was his library and on the other side of a small 
entry back of the parlour is his kitchen, where they were 
cooking his dinner. I should say he was about sixty-five 
years old, six feet high, dark blue eyes, light complexion, 
very spare in his habit ; he wore a black robe, his appear- 
ance, situation and character were striking beyond descrip- 
tion; I was almost inclined to think him one of the inhab- 
itants of the regions he had been so long exploring, or at 
least he had caught their Manners. He informed us that he 
had lived in that situation Twenty years; he spoke English 
very well, having been a resident in London several years. 
But, thus far, was but a small part of our feast; on being 
mounted to this immense height we had an opportunity 
of seeing the whole extent of grounds within the moun- 
tains, and of looking down on the City of Palermo and the 
gardens of the neighbourhood. The garden attached to the 
Palace is very handsome, and the Prince Aci's appeared to 
great advantage. It seemed as if I had been seeing this 
place and its environs as one views a Panorama made of 
blocks, looking at each piece separately, but they were now 
all brought so as to be seen by a single view. I have often 
thought since I have been in Palermo that I could never 



28 William Appleton [1817 

superb, the Walls were covered with sky blue satin, the 
Chair Cushions of the same, the chairs of Ebony; the Cur- 
tains like the satin on the walls; the room 40 by 36 feet, 
Arched, & elegant figures overhead. There were four Ele- 
gant Glasses, one on each side and ends of the room, the 
Plate about 10 feet in length, the whole ornamented with 
a variety of ornaments, his Arms & Crest on many pieces 
of furniture. The bedroom had all the conveniences one 
could imagine, and I am told it is not occupied as he and 
his lady have separate establishments, but neither lives in 
this Palace. His income is |2oo,ooo per Annum, but it 
is worthy of remark that this man has been reduced to 
nothing within a few years. His estate in Spain confiscated 
by Jos. Bonaparte, in Naples by Murat, in Sicily by the 
King, and he twice condemned to death, and once reprieved 
by the influence of his friends' money when on the spot 
of Execution. He has his estates again now. So the world 
goes. 'T'kursday, i']^^. Walked with my wife on the Marina, 
took a little cold, drank too much coffee, and found my- 
self very sick at night ; an attack of the cholera morbus. 
Friday^ iS^'^. Laid in bed most of the day. Dr. Patranagio 
came to see me twice. Sunday, 20'^. Still waiting for a fair 
wind to sail for Naples. We went into the garden of Prince 
Valamosa, one of the prettiest I have seen; in many re- 
spects superior to any. It is neat beyond description 
and the walks very handsome. We went to the Church 
S. Francisco di Paolo, this being that Saint's day. Church is 
dressed for illumination. We get a little tired waiting for 
the packet. T^uesday, 22«< We are told the packet is to sail 



1817] Winter in Sicily 29 

this evening, but no dependence can be placed on what 
you hear in this place. I shall leave Palermo not without 
some regret, but very little; I think the inhabitants very 
mean & selfish and old in all sorts of iniquity, and I can 
hardly believe a man honest that has lived long with them. 
You see in everyone a disposition to take advantage of 
you from the highest to the lowest. Their trade seems 
small, and their Ideas contracted, but for beauty, the coun- 
try cannot be exceeded. Of extravagance we see much, of 
wretchedness the streets are crowded, and to show their 
infamy, their Prisons are running over. When a criminal 
is tried he has not the privilege of a juror, or of hearing 
his trial ; he is taken up, put in prison and in due time he 
is either waited on with a release or by the hangman; they 
say this depends on how much money he has, but they 
never execute anyone till his money is expended. In their 
Courts of Law, all seems to depend on who will fee the 
judges most, yet they pretend to say that it is dishonourable 
to take bribes from both parties; it seems there is much 
litigation in this place, very many lawyers fully employed 
but badly paid; everybody works cheap for Sicilians, but 
they expect much more from strangers. A Physician pays 
a visit for two lires, or a first rate one four, yet they ex- 
pect 10 or 12 from a foreigner. In a coffee shop they will 
charge a Sicilian three grains, or ^ cent for a cup of 
coffee, but a foreigner they manage to get about ten from, 
by giving a larger cup, and offering him bread whether 
he eats or not, all the same. But there is this satisfaction — 
that they treat you with politeness, while they cheat your 



30 William Appleton [1817 

teeth out of your head if possible. You are sure to have 
your Pockets overhauled if you go to a public place. Ser- 
vants all dishonest is the general opinion. 




cTVzTTTT -a.^ 



DIARY JOTTINGS: 1818-1836 

1818 

JANUARY, Charleston. I should not deserve the name 
of Christian did I not feel grateful to Heaven for my 
present blessings and past favours. Twelve months 
since, I had little right to expect to see this day, and so 
much health as I now enjoy I hardly dreamed of When I 
reflect on the past year and recollect that I have passed over 
four thousand miles of land and as much by water without 
accident, that I have been raised from the weakest situa- 
tion to which the human frame is capable of being reduced 
and recover from, I ask myself, Why is this? How can I 
be useful to myself or my fellow creatures that it should 
please Heaven thus to spare me"? I am not able to say why 
it is so, nor do I find that grateful heart within my bosom 
that I should expect to find in one situated like myself 
I cannot say that I think my improvement in mind is to 
be compared with that of the body. I do flatter myself that 
I am less irritable than I was a year since, and I hope less 
envious, but I have not had any trials of my disposition of 
late. When I for a moment think what has passed within a 
year my sensations are indescribable. I feel as if I had been 
hurled through the ethereal regions from clime to clime. I 
can hardly realize that I have been in Sicily, Italy, Switzer- 
land, France and England, and, now, in my native Country 
in the same year; but when I look at the year past I have 
no doubt in concluding that it has been the most interest- 



32 William Appleton [1818 

ing of my life thus far, and there is not much probability 
there will be any as much so. My business concerns have 
equalled my expectations, I am quite as well as to prop- 
erty now as a year since; my future prospects are much 
better, I have a prospect of health that I had not a year 
since. I have a hope of returning soon to my dear friends, 
I am sure I have many who are much interested for me. 
My good Wife is happy and deservedly so; she is all that 
any reasonable man could wish, ever finding friends and 
so fortunate as to have no enemies. I have been better 
satisfied with her the last year in troubles and anxieties 
than in prosperity; she has strong powers of mind not 
brought into action on common occasions; take her all in 
all, her husband and friends have cause to be proud of her. 



1822 

MARCH 24'^. I attended church at St. Paul's this 
morning and heard an interesting sermon from Dr. 
Jarvis on self examination. My feelings were that from 
time to time I would follow his advice of reflecting on the 
past transactions and endeavour to correct my faults by 
acknowledging them to myself 25^^'. Much occupied in 
attending to get forward the Columbian Bank. Passed the 
evening with a Whist Party at Mr. Amory's. Was struck 
by the power the Catholick Priests have over their People. 
Our servant Peter came to me on my return at night and 
said he had something to communicate to me; that his 
Priest told him that until he made known to me certain 



i822] Diary Jottings 33 

thefts made by another servant he would not give him 
absolution; I must acknowledge I felt very small that I 
had not, nor no one on earth, such power to controul me 
as this servant has; I am quite disposed to turn Catholick. 
26'^'. The effect of my last night's dissipation I feel con- 
siderably and will endeavour to avoid keeping so late 
hours. The day is very beautiful. I have been engaged in 
business but nothing in particular transpired to give pain 
or pleasure. 27^-^'. I find myself continually too much in- 
clined to sport a little with the feelings of others, not so 
much from bad feeling as a desire to show playfulness; 
much inclined to severity, and sometimes without a strict 
regard to facts. My mind is very much bent on making 
money, more than securing temporal friends or lasting 
peace. 29'-'^ I dined this day with Mr. Nathan Appleton, 
a party of twenty-two. I seldom have a pleasanter time, 
but almost always find I have something to regret when I 
pass the day in a large party. 

APRIL 2«< Passed the evening in helping Mrs. N. 
JTjL Appleton get her Notes prepared for her Party. 3^"^ 
Attended Ward Meeting. "Triton" arrived; forty-nine 
days from Liverpool. 4''^. I feel that I am quite eaten up 
with business; while in Church, my mind with all the ex- 
ertion I endeavoured to make, was flying from City to City, 
from Ship to Ship and from Speculation to Speculation. 
6'^K Attended the caucus for Mayor and Aldermen at the 
Exchange. Principal speakers, John Lowell, Col. Perkins 
and Mr. Webster, y^^'. Our Sarah Elizabeth was christened 



36 William Appleton [1822 

and some others. 28^^^ Much distress for money, I am quite 
sick of the Mercantile business, and particularly of pur- 
chasing Notes, ig'''^ General Election. 30'^^. I find myself 
quite fidgety. F.Welch acknowledges himself a Bankrupt. 
I expect it will prove abad Business. 31^''. AtMrs. Amory's, 
a party of Children, very pleasant; then at Mrs, Peter 
Parker's, where we met a small but pleasant party. 

JUNE 3''< Artillery Election, a very great assemblage 
of people on the Common. ^f^K Our mercantile com- 
munity are so much harassed as to make me feel as if I 
wished myself anything but a Merchant. y^^K I am so much 
excited by my business concerns that I have very little 
pleasure. 8'^'. Dined at Mr. Amory's with Mr. Gold, Mr. 
Wm. Sullivan, Mr. Tilden, Mr. N. Appleton, very pleas- 
ant party. Mr. Loring is preparing to go to Canada. The 
distress among our Merchants continues; money is very 
difficult to be obtained ; first rate notes at four months can 
be sold at double interest. 10''''. People seem to be getting 
more quiet; the failures appear to have ceased. My Wife 
is much troubled for a nurse; she has now in the House 
a most infamous Huzzy. 11'^. Sent to Tewksbury for a 
Nurse. Much engaged in Business. Mr. Ludlow failed. 
15^^. Meeting of Committee of Bangor Bank. Madam 
Amory very low, will not last many days. 18'^^. Elizabeth 
Coffin Amory ^ departed for unknown regions this morn- 
ing. Her life has been long, 82 Years. In Youth she was 

* Mrs. Thomas Amory, mother of Mrs. Appleton's step-father, Mr. Jonathan 
Amory. 



i822] Diary Jottings 37 

beautiful; in middle age, useful; at the close of life, beloved 
and much respected. She was a lady of unusual politeness 
of manners, graceful and neat in her dress and Household 
establishment to a proverb. She leaves three sons, three 
daughters, and about fifty Grand and Great-Grandchil- 
dren. Mr. Bachi, an Italian, dined with us; he is a native 
of Palermo and absconded from his native place on ac- 
count of being concerned in a plot against the government. 
iQ^h^ Attended the funeral of Madam Amory. If death 
is under any circumstance pleasant, it must be when an 
aged Christian resigns her Soul to her Maker. The distress 
among the mercantile community has almost sickened 
me of business. 22"'^. Left to visit my good Mother; slept 
at Chelmsford. My reflections not pleasant, I feel much 
anxiety in going to my Mother's. 23'"^ Arrd Mount Ver- 
non, my Mother much pleased to see me ; her health better 
than when I last saw her. 24'^'. Most delightful rain. Rode 
to Groton, left my horse & Chaise, & took the Stage to 
Concord, where I found Mrs. Amory ^ and others. Returned 
with them to Acton, where we slept. 25^'''. We left Acton at 
^ past seven o'clock and went to Lancaster to dine. We 
found the ride from Groton to Lancaster very delightful — 
Mrs. Amory rode in the Chaise with me. We found a com- 
fortable Hotel and arr^ at Worcester at evening, where we 
slept very well accommodated. 26'^'. I left my friends and 
made my way to Boston. I find it pleasant to get home 
again and find all well. 30'^'. We had a sermon on the rise 
of our Church,^ this being the anniversary of the dedication 

* Mrs. Appleton's mother. ' St. Paul's, afterwards the pro-Cathedral. 



38 William Appleton [1822 

of the Church two years since, when 25 famihes only be- 
longed to the Church; last year there were 80, and now 
128. 

JULY 2«< Rode with Mr. & Mrs. Sam' & Louisa Ap- 
pleton to Mr. Francis', where we were much pleased 
with their farming establishment. 8''''. Mrs. Amory's family 
removed to the Cottage at Watertown. 9^^^. Mrs. Apple- 
ton rode with me to see her Mother at her new residence. 
1 1''''. The "Rasselas" arriv^. Col. Caldwell a passenger; he, 
Mr. Jona Amory & N. Amory dined with us. 16'^'. Went 
with Miss Cutler,^ Miss Dexter and Miss SuUivan to 
George's Island,^ a very pleasant sail we had. i']*^. Rode 
to Watertown with Mrs. Appleton; Mrs. Amory we find 
very pleasantly situated. 20''''. Went to the Island to see 
Miss Cutler, passed the Sunday there; it was very pleasant 
although very hot in the city. 

1831 

DECEMBER 31^^ This year has been one of unpre- 
cedented prosperity in this Country, and particularly 
so to enterprising Merchants and Manufacturers. Well 
managed Manufacturing establishments of Wool & Cot- 
ton, where two-thirds of their Capital is invested in Real 
Estate and Machinery, have earned twenty per Cent on 
the whole Capital. The rate of Interest has been low, gen- 
erally at five per Cent at the Banks ; at this moment they 

* Mrs. Appleton's sister. ' Now occupied by Fort Warren. 



1832] Diary Jottings 39 

get six per Cent owing to a demand from N. York. Not less 
than eight millions of Southern paper is held in Boston. 

I am not very well satisfied with myself; my prejudices 
are very strong. I feel as if others who are in a degree de- 
pendent on me should be governed by my feelings more 
than I ought. I have considerable to contend with, but I 
ought to soar above trifles. As to my dealings with others 
I am quite satisfied with myself; I have no temptation to 
make a hard bargain, except the pride of having done 
better than others. I do not feel anxious to make money 
for the sake of having it, and should as soon spend my 
whole income as not if I could do it with a belief that it 
would do more good than harm. 

[/iT was here in the Diary that the sketch made by Mr. Appleton of his 
early life was written.'] 



1832 

I AM much gratified by the very numerous calls from 
my friends during my indisposition, which has been 
rather protracted; for three months I have not been able 
to attend much to b.usiness or to go to Church. I am now 
about making arrangements to go to Charleston in the Ship 
" Dover." I expect to be materially benefited by the Voyage 
& journey home. My complaint is from having the influ- 
enza which produced a Cough and after several colds I 
find I cannot go into the cold air without suffering. I be- 
lieve my Lungs free from disease and as strong as any part 



40 William Appleton [1832 

of me; but should my expectations not be realized I have 
made all the arrangements as to property that I think are 
necessary. 

In March I sailed for Charleston and returned in June. 
The object for which I went, accomplished, my health 
being nearly as good as usual. The summer was mostly 
passed at Nahant, a place I think very conducive to my 
health, but circumstances, not entirely within my controul, 
led me to sell the Cottage^ I have occupied with much 
pleasure and benefit. We experienced considerable excite- 
ment in apprehension from Cholera, but Boston has suf- 
fered very little from it. On my return from the South, 
under the idea that property generally was rather likely to 
decline, I sold off my Man" & Rail Road Stocks to a com- 
fortable amount, which proved a good calculation. 

1833 

JANUARY vf. At this time everything is very dull. 
We are apprehending a destruction of the Protecting 
system to quiet South Carolina Nullification. I have full 
confidence in our Lowell Stocks, yet I am not willing to 
increase my interest materially in them, as I am not anx- 
ious to gain Property, but very unwilling to lessen what 
I possess. I have lately been appointed President of the 
United States Bank in this City, which will take up some 
of my time and prevent my doing so much business as I 
otherwise might. My intention is to keep my affairs within 

' Still standing, on Swallow's Cave Road. 



1833] Diary Jottings 41 

compass, not to owe much money. I do not believe they 
will alter the Tariff this year, and if they do, it will not 
injure the Cotton establishments at Lowell. The Prints it 
will destroy and the woolens. Nullification will come to 
nothing, yet they may possibly make a little fight in South 
Carolina, but I much doubt it, as the Press's Proclamation 
will get there in time, I fancy, to give them a chance to 
retreat with honour. They are a fine set of fellows and will 
not disgrace themselves. 

FEBRUARY 10'^. Our Mrs. Nathan Appleton^ died. 
She was a woman of uncommon talents, with more ac- 
complishments than most ladies possess, much celebrated 
for her beauty; possessed the kindest feelings, willing to 
make every sacrifice to promote the comfort of others; 
with qualifications that ought to have made her the hap- 
piest among the happy, yet her standard appeared, un- 
fortunately, too high; she could not do as much for her 
friends as she wished; she did not make the most of the 
luxuries that surrounded her, but rather felt or appeared 
as if something was wanting which made her less happy 
and useful. But she died in full (as I believe well founded) 
hope that she had an interest in Him who died to save 
repented sinners. Her age was forty-six in November last. 

APRIL. Eben Appleton, my much esteemed Cousin, 
jljL died. He was one of the most popular men I ever 
knew; he was deserving of the goodwill of his friends and 

' Mother of Mrs. Henry W. Longfellow and Mr. Tom Appleton. 



42 William Appleton [1833 

acquaintances; his talents were far above a common order; 
he was rather playful than otherwise, better calculated for 
a literary life than that of a Merchant. His age was forty- 
eight. 

JULY 27'-^. We have an addition to our family of a fine 
boy; we call him Charles Hook.^ 

■834 

JANUARY. The last has been a year of general pros- 
perity to our Merchants, Manufacturers and the Coun- 
try generally. In the latter part of the year our affairs 
have been deranged by an unnecessary war between the 
Government and the United States Banks. It will end with- 
out very much harm. The Country is Rich and, notwith- 
standing we have done too much business, we can bear the 
checks which will grow out of the reduction of the debt 
due the U. S. Banks. I think the Bank will be compelled 
to close its concerns; I think, like most great moneyed 
Institutions, the Managers feel their power more than they 
should, or they think they have more power than they 
have. The business of this Branch is conducted on inde- 
pendent, fair principles, and I trust our direction would 
submit to no other. Property has not fallen in consequence 
of the scarcity of money, nor have there been any failures. 

' The 10th and last child. Names of children in order of birth: William Sullivan; 
James Amory; Mary Ann; Sarah Elizabeth; Francis Henry; Joseph Warren, 
changed to William; Edward, died young; Harriett Cutler; Hetty Sullivan; 
Charles Hook. 



J 



1834] Diary Jottings 43 

Yet there must be many; among the good business there 
has been bad, and many persons are extended, who have 
but small property. As to my property, I have not made 
up my Books; my impression is that on a fair valuation I 
have fifty thousand dollars more than a year since. I owe 
more money than I intended to at the beginning of the 
year, and from present appearances I may do considerable 
business the year to come. I think money will be made 
on Cotton. I should extend myself more in shipments but 
I am afraid of getting too much connected with Foreign 
Houses. My health has been very good. I ride every morn- 
ing from ^ past 6 to ^ past 7 o'clock. I drink no wine; 
I find an important benefit from giving it up. 

MARCH. I have just returned from Philadelphia, 
where I went by the request of the Directors of the 
U. S. Bank to get additional means for the Office in this 
place. My business was to state to the Managers of the 
Bank that I would not hold the situation I had unless we 
had controul of the business in this city, and a Capital not 
to be withdrawn; in short, that I would not be the tool of 
any set of men. I found them, Messrs. Biddle & Jaudon, 
quite prepared to meet my views; I doubt not they were 
fully apprised of my intentions, as I had communicated 
them to Mr. Frothingham but to no other person. I got 
the funds required and a promise that I might do anything 
I pleased in the relation to the Office in Boston. Sunday, 
16^^. I am going tomorrow with W" to see my good 
Mother who I apprehend will not live long. Sunday, 23''< 



44 William Appleton [1834 

We had a very pleasant journey to Mount Vernon. I 
found my dear Mother much better than I feared and I 
trust she may yet live years; her example to her Children, 
for us, as a Christian should be invaluable. 

JUNE 8'^^. I fell from my Horse and broke my collar 
bone which confined me to the house some days, and 
I v/as weeks without my usual exercise. By the advice of 
Dr. Warren I changed my diet to vegetables, which I 
found beneficial. 

JULY 2^*^. Returned yesterday from a pleasant excur- 
sion to the White Mountains with Dr., Mrs., & Miss 
Warren, Mrs. Grant, Miss Scollay and my son Amory. 

•835 

JANUARY. The year just closed has been an eventful 
one to the Mercantile community, much fluctuation 
took place in consequence of the difficulty between the 
Government and the Banks of the United States. 

Our Country is prosperous beyond all calculation, yet 
the traders have many of them lost money the past year. 
The China Voyages have been very bad; Coffee has been 
a very losing article; Hides & Sugar from South America 
have cost more than they would sell for in Europe. The 
Calcutta business has been bad. Indigo sold for a loss of 
fifty to a hundred dollars a case. Cotton is worth four cents 
more per lb. than a year since; I think the price now too 



1836] Diary Jottings 45 

high, being from fifteen to seventeen cents. There may be 
much speculation in the article through the year, but I 
think it a dangerous article to purchase at present prices. 
Manufacturing business has been good, the profits on good 
establishments equal to about double interest. 

My business has been extensive and the results good 
compared with my neighbours: my property I fancy is 
worth twenty-five to thirty thousand dollars more than a 
year since. My family and incidental expenses amount to 
about fifteen thousand dollars. I want no man's money, but 
it gives me an unpleasant sensation to have others more 
successful than myself These are feelings I am ashamed 
of and I endeavour to correct them. It is mean and unac- 
countable that our desire for property or power is so great, 
when we reflect on the entire uselessness of it for the little 
time which we can remain with it. 

1836 

JANUARY F^ The year past has been one of unpar- 
alleled prosperity. Almost every description of property 
has advanced in price, and the produce of our Country has 
been high in foreign markets, which has enabled us to 
pay for the large amount of specie imported the preced- 
ing year. At present, money is worth from eight to ten per 
cent for business paper. My belief is that the coming year 
will be less prosperous than usual. I do not anticipate any 
great disaster, yet I feel that many kinds of goods are high 
and that we shall have some failures growing out of the 



48 William Appleton [1836 

was to go to him, but after consulting with my friends I 
concluded to have Amory go immediately to meet his 
brother, with the hope he would be able to return to us, 
and Mr. Ed Austin kindly offered to accompany him; 
they left in the next Packet after we got the alarming 
letters; they had been gone but a short time till we re- 
ceived letters which compelled us to make up our minds 
we should see him no more. He died at Schaffhausen in 
Switzerland on the 24th August, less than twenty days 
after we heard of his severe indisposition. Amory returned 
to us in good health in the early part of November. I could 
not give an idea of the extreme suffering I endured dur- 
ing the space from hearing of his distressing health till we 
heard of the closing scene; it was such as I think I could 
not have long endured. When the sad tidings came of his 
death, the shock was great, but the suffering less than I 
anticipated; it was a relief from suspense, perhaps the most 
trying suffering. My health was suffering and for some 
weeks I was confined to the house. Mrs. Appleton felt our 
loss much, very much. Our friends' sympathy was great 
and did much to alleviate our sorrow. I now feel that God 
has taken him to Himself I think of him with the greatest 
pleasure; the thousand incidents in his short life appear 
to me in the most delightful aspect; his imperfections have 
disappeared. I can truly say with Mr. Nathan Appleton 
who was with him, "He had less earthly dross than any 
being I ever knew; He won the hearts of all that knew him, 
and those who saw him during his last days spoke of him 
in the most exalted terms." Mary Appleton, in a letter 



1836J Diary Jottings 49 

to Mrs. Sami Appleton, says: "I cannot help thinking 
of him a perfect Angel, such a lovely disposition, such a 
Heavenly expression, so much consulting the feelings of 
other People, so much patience without irritations; every- 
body says — 'What an angelic face.'" Mr. Jewett, writing 
from London of the characters of the party to a friend, 
says: "Of M*". William I now pause; I cannot well express 
my love and regard for that young gentleman; a love and 
regard which I fear will be soon saddened & I put him [his 
character] in the most elevated place." The recollections 
of his pious resignation at the last hour are more valuable 
to me than anything in this world. He is gone; we have 
much left to be grateful to kind Heaven for, many prom- 
ising Children and other blessings, more than falls to the 
lot of almost any family within my knowledge. 

I have been a long time endeavouring to make up my 
mind that it is my duty to join the Holy Communion. I 
have had several conversations on the subject with Mr. 
Stone, Dr. Warren, Mr. S. Hubbard, and corresponded 
with my good friend Mr. Potter; they all incline me to 
think it is my duty to make a public profession of Re- 
Hgion, but I have doubts. I feel that I am very sinful, full 
of the love of this world, that it absorbs my thoughts far 
beyond what I am fully sensible it should. I feel the value 
of religion and desire my children should be rehgious 
more than everything else. 

In the way of business I have been as successful as in 
almost any year of my life. My property is worth sixty 
to seventy thousand dollars more than at the commence- 



THE DIARY OF 1837-1862 

■837 

FEBRUARY. There has been quite a change in the 
money market the last month, and prices of stocks 
have improved. James S. Amory has lately engaged 
himself to Miss Greene, an excellent arrangement for both; 
she is said to be a fine Girl and he is a good fellow; she has 
money and he will not spend it improperly; but he never 
did nor will he ever make any money. He has now some 
twenty thousand dollars rec*^ from his late firm in Phila^, 
but he did very little to make it, and my advice to him 
is to have nothing to do with business in the future. Jona- 
than has just commenced with twenty-five thousand dollars, 
furnished him by Mr. Austin, with a Mr. Leeds who is well 
spoken of, but I have not confidence in his success; he has 
no business talent, and if Leeds is what they say of him 
he will not long remain with him; my fear is they will be 
led into an extensive business and fail; Dr. Austin's money 
lost, and we have Jonathan & his family to take care of 

MARCH. Easter Sunday. For the first time I joined 
in partaking of the Holy Communion. It was a 
great effort for me to make up my mind whether it was 
my duty so to do, having my mind, as it is, so much en- 
grossed in the pursuit of the things of this world. 2g'^'. 
Went to New York, where I found a bad state of things; 
money extremely scarce ; Bills in London twelve and a 



1837] Diary 53 

half per Cent, while gold or silver might be shipped at 
a profit of two per cent. The U. S. Bank and some other 
Banks are sending out Bonds payable in London to re- 
lieve the American Merchants in London, I fear it will not 
answer the purpose. I pressed Mr. Biddle to send some 
specie with the Bonds, but the truth is they dare not part 
with it. There was a day the present week which looked 
as if the Merchants would stop payment in a body, but 
they got over the Panic, and will now fail a few a day 
until a large number have gone. The trouble has not com- 
menced in Boston or Phild,but must extend to both Cities; 
we shall have the most trying spring and summer known 
by the present generation of traders. Merchandise of all 
kinds, Stocks & Land must come down in such a degree 
as to cause every man much extended to fail, and a man 
worth one Hundred thousand dollars and owes three will 
be fortunate if he pays his debts. 

APRIL 9'^^, Sunday. We Rec^ such bad accounts from 
l\. New York as induced me to go there to look after 
Messrs. Paige & Co.'s business, and to ascertain if the 
Banks would probably continue to pay specie. I found 
a worse state of things than when I left some ten days 
since; an entire want of confidence, paper could not be 
negotiated in Wall Street in the usual way; persons who 
were in the habit of taking notes preferred letting their 
money remain in the Banks to taking paper, not knowing 
what would be the currency when the Notes became due. 
The United States Banks agreed to issue Post Notes, pay- 



56 William Appleton [1837 

sion for New York & Phil^. We passed two days in New 
York. In Phil^ there appears to be a feeling tliat the Gov- 
ernment of the U. S. must use the present Banks to get 
things in a proper state, but they are mistaken; the pres- 
ent party will never submit to such humiliation. We re- 
turned to Boston, being absent about ten days; had a pleas- 
ant journey; found all well. After much anxiety and various 
discussions Mr. T. put all his property into my hands for 
the benefit of his creditors. Mr. G. W. Lyman is nominally 
associated with me. My determination is to use my best 
possible exertions for the benefit of all interested; in nowise 
to commit myself in a pecuniary point or to purchase any 
part of the property I have had placed in my hands. We 
are all anxious to know the fate of the London Banking 
Houses; most persons suppose they will all fail and the 
Bank of England stop specie payment. My belief is that 
the Banks will not get into difficulty and that we much 
overrate the losses that will be sustained by the London 
Houses in the American trade. My belief is that we have 
seen the worst of it for the present. 

JUNE 13'^'. Reed letters from Mr. N. Appleton to the 
13th May from London; he appears encouraged as to 
the American Houses being sustained. I cannot think they 
will get on after hearing from this side of the suspension 
of specie payments. My expectation is that they will think 
that Brother Jonathan intends cheating them out of all 
their debts and they will cut them all adrift. Possibly the 
Bank of England may feel compelled to keep them along. 



1837] Diary 57 

But it is more likely we hear of many failures in Liver- 
pool and other places in England when we get news a few 
days later from England. Went to visit my mother the first 
of the week. I found her very well, full of spirits and her 
mind bright; she reads much, two or three hours in an even- 
ing; able to ride and drive the horse attached to her chaise; 
she takes fully four pounds of Opium in a year; the quan- 
tity she increases regularly; she has taken it for more than 
twenty years without apparent bad effects; she began with 
a small quantity for diarrhea; she has been a feeble woman 
for more than fifty years; now eighty-one, and has as much 
health as she has had during my recollections. lo^^K Amory 
left this day with Mr. Oxnard for New York. I am very 
happy in viewing the character of this son; He fills the 
place of dear William with me to an extent beyond what 
I could have imagined; I think him as pure a minded lad 
as I ever knew, and he has more real piety than any young 
man of his age that has ever come to my knowledge. 

SEPTEMBER. With Franklin Dexter I took a jour- 
ney to Pittsfield, Albany & New York. When we met 
Mr. Nathan Appleton & family, returning from their tour 
to Europe, I made up my mind not to make them unhappy 
by showing my feelings. It was painful to meet them who 
had accompanied my dear William on his last journey. 
My friends returned in excellent health and spirits and 
I trust will be contented with their much to be envied 
home. 



6o William Appleton [1838 

the speculators who have got their funds from the Banks, 
where they are directors. 

FEBRUARY c^tfK Went with Mr. Paige to New York 
to endeavour to assist him in getting some money on 
the Grand Island Bonds. Sunday I dined with Mr. Jona- 
than Amory ; Mary Ann passed Sunday with them, she 
looks very well; am quite delighted with her. i^^^. Arrived 
in Boston the afternoon; found my dear pet Charles quite 
ill, but not very sick as I think. 22«< Charles quite ill and 
I fear may not recover; he has a lung fever & pleurisy. 
Dr. Jackson attends on him & Mason Warren is all atten- 
tion to him. 25'^'. Master Charles much better and I trust 
has turned a favourable corner; the poor little fellow has 
suffered much pain. 

MARCH VK There has been much excitement 
among the small traders owing to the curtailment 
of the Banks; there appears to me now there will be no 
difficulty in the Banks resuming payment in May. We 
shall have a large amount of Specie from England in that 
month which will put all right again and before Sept. we 
shall be wondering why we were so much depressed; things 
will get back to former state and all will be well till we 
get in debt again in Europe. %^^K J. Ingersoll Bowditch 
called on me this morning and said his father, Dr. NatW 
Bowditch, would like to have me call and see him, which 
I was most happy to do. He is quite sensible that he 
is about to close his earthly existence. He said that he was 



1838] Diary 61 

anxious to see me; that he felt a strong interest in me 
as he had for many years, as he had openly expressed his 
confidence in me, and my ability & usefulness. He said: 
" At one time when speaking to you my feelings, you let 
slip from your lips that I flattered you ; I tell you as a 
dying man I never said to you a word that I did not feel, 
and I now tell you that you have done as much for the 
City of Boston as any man in it ; your word passes as a war- 
rant, and no person has, nor deserves, more the respect of 
the Community." He advised me to continue in business 
while I had the health & capacity so to do; not risking so 
much in any one object as to affect my happiness should 
it prove unsuccessful. I told him I considered the oppor- 
tunity I had of his society was such as I ought to be grate- 
ful for, that it was impossible for any person to be as much 
with him as I had been for the last twelve years without 
improving. Sunday evening, W^. I have not for some weeks 
been in a happy state of mind. I have felt my passions were 
not subdued, my feelings toward my fellow beings far from 
what I knew they should be and I doubted whether I ought 
to go to the communion table. I did not know what to do; 
my anxiety was very great. As is our custom, Amory was 
reading one of Jay's lessons for the evening, the text was 
the request of the Jailor to St. Paul, "What shall I do 
to be saved*?" The Answer, "Believe in the Lord Jesus 
Christ," came over me with an effect that I could not de- 
scribe if I were to attempt it. I dreamed of it through the 
following night, it has hardly been out of my mind since. 
It has dispersed the cloud that surrounded my mind for 



64 William Appleton [1838 

& Mrs. Sam'l Appleton dined with us. A most delightful 
season. 

A UGUST. Dr. Warren and family have returned from 
jl\. Europe. We arranged for him to take the House we 
now live in, and I am to build on the south part of the lot. 

DECEMBER 3^^ More than half a century have I 
lived : almost without parallel in the smiles of For- 
tune, in wealth, Wife, children, etc., etc. So much for me 
has been granted by kind Heaven, what have I done for 
my fellow beings'? Very little beyond my own connec- 
tions; my Wife, children, Mother & Sisters have not been 
neglected, but beyond my immediate circle very little has 
been done to promote the cause of religion, and strange 
to say that with a full conviction of the error, I con- 
tinue to be engrossed in the cares of this World, a desire 
to increase a fortune now large, more than six hundred 
Thousand dollars and one Hundred times more than I 
expected at twenty years old ever to possess. My present 
intentions are to lessen my business, try to bring my mind 
to dwell on things of more importance, to associate more 
with religious persons. Not that I suppose I can make my- 
self what I would be, but I shall be more in the way of 
Heaven's richest blessings. When I look about me and 
see the wonderful kindness of the Supreme Being to me 
in giving us such amiable children, endowed with a full 
share of health, reason, together with this world's goods far 
above what fall to the lot of most men, I pause I Among 



I 







)ski 



1839] Diary 65 

the blessings I feel most is the promise of virtue and use- 
fulness in our eldest son. He is all a kind parent could 
wish; his disposition more valuable than many fortunes; 
his principles so fixed that I trust he is safe from the or- 
dinary temptations of this world; He has lately become 
engaged to Miss Mary Lyman ^ with the full approbation 
of all their friends. 

■839 

THE year has passed without any remarkable incidents 
in my immediate Walks up to the present time. We are 
now going to our new House at Brookline, the latter part 
of July. It is in an unfinished state, or rather the place is. 
Mary Ann took a journey to the Springs in Virginia with Dr. 
Robbins, Dr. and Mrs. Hayward and Miss Spring. She was 
absent about six weeks and returned with improved health. 

SEPTEMBER 2«< My excellent friend Honb'e Wm. 
Sullivan" departed this life. He was a man of fair 
talents, well educated, excellent heart, a true friend, dis- 
appointed as a publick man; died regretted by all, par- 
ticularly by those who knew him best ; to me he was an 
ardent friend. In 1816, not expecting to return from Eu- 
rope, I left him and Mr. Jonathan Amory^ my executors, 
or Trustees, but I have lived to settle both their estates. 
10'^. Letters by the Steam Packet from Baring Brothers 
and Co. indicated the failure of the United States Banks 

' Daughter of Mr. George W. Lyman. 'His wife's uncle. 

* His wife's stepfather. 



68 William Appleton [1839 

but some twenty thousand pounds in Baltimore & thirty 
to forty elsewhere. He said if New York & Boston con- 
tinue to pay specie PhiH. must call in & resume as soon 
as possible ; that he, in the Bank of Pennsylvania, was op- 
posed to extending till it was ascertained what would be 
finally done in New York. I returned to New York the 14th, 
where I found much doubt existed as to their being able 
to supply exchange for the steamer to sail on the 19th. 
I considered it very doubtful if the Banks would be able 
to sustain themselves, but the Banks finally made arrange- 
ments to draw on London for about 250^ £, which changed 
the appearance of things. Yet there were some bad features 
in the future prospects, much was said of the Wall Street 
Click. Sam^ Ward is a sound man but very bad manners, 
very unpopular. Tho^. W. Ward knows less but has all 
his unpopularity, yet thinks he is a very great man. I have 
prevented his making several very great blunders within 
a month. On my return to Boston I find much excitement 
on the question whether the Banks shall suspend or not. 
There was a meeting of a large number of Merchants, it 
being an adjournment from another meeting, the last night, 
and on a motion to adjourn or take up the proposition 
to recommend the Banks to suspend, there was about an 
equal number. The statements that I made of the deter- 
mination on the part of the Banks in New York & of their 
strength produced much effect, yet I think it quite doubt- 
ful how the affair turns; I think three-fourths of the traders 
and Bank directors wish a suspension, but they are afraid 
to avow it. I think on the whole we shall hold out as long 



1839] Diary 69 

as they do in New York. 25'-^. We have rather alarming 
accounts from New York on the subject of the specie pay- 
ments. There was a meeting called of Merchants who have 
appointed a committee to call on the Banks and request 
them to increase their discounts, to receive & pay Bills of 
the distant Banks, virtually to suspend specie payments. It 
is doubtful whether the better part of the Merchants will 
join in this project; if so the Banks must or a part of them 
will be compelled to comply. I do not see any prominent 
men among those of the committees. Jon" Amory appears 
to be active; poor fellow, I fear he will do no good for 
himself or any one else in this World. 28'^. The meeting 
of Merchants in New York ended without any bad effects ; 
on the contrary they made no impression on the Banks or 
the publick other than induce the latter to support the 
Banks; I now feel more confidence in the Banks holding 
out to pay specie than I have at any former moment since 
the actions of the Banks in Philadelphia; no failures of 
consequence have taken place in this place or in New 
York, nor will there be among persons able to pay their 
debts. The trade of the last year has been good generally, 
and till prices fall the trades have the appearance of having 
made money. I fear before a year passes many who now 
feel strong will find they have no property. 

NOVEMBER v^. The accounts from New York 
show a continued pressure on the money market. 
Stocks are very low & money worth three per cent per 
month for paper of sixty to ninety days. Our accounts from 



72 William Appleton [1840 

FEBRUARY. I find myself much troubled with the 
old enemy dyspepsia. The last month was very severe 
weather which prevented my getting my usual exercise. 

MARCH 15'^^. For the last fifteen days I have been 
dieting on a small quantity of meat & crackers, 
after going through a course of physick; I have taken 
before eating at each meal a preparation of Creosote. 

/% PRIL i^''. My indisposition continues to an extent 
IjL that it disquiets and alarms me. 15"^. The last two 
weeks I passed in journeying. Went to New York with 
Mary Ann. "Trenton" arrival: stored her cargo; sold her. 

JUNE 18'-^. This is the day my dear Amory is to be 
married to Miss Mary E. Lyman; may God bless 
them! I think well of his choice, he deserves much. It is 
a sad day to me, the idea of parting with him makes me 
sad, almost sick; he has been my companion for three 
years ; we have communicated freely on all subjects ; night 
& morning has he read to us from Jay. We have daily 
united together in prayer; I trust, I believe, with benefit to 
both; his health is not firm; I fear he inherits the consti- 
tution of his father; if so, a long life is hardly desirable; 
yet, with all my infirmities, there are few persons who have 
so much cause of gratitude to Heaven as myself: a wife 
with an affectionate heart, with strong attachments to 
her family, blessed with excellent health; children with 



1840] Diary 73 

good dispositions, easily controulled ; many kind friends 
and an ample fortune for myself & family, with the means 
of aiding others of my own blood who require my assist- 



JULY 20'^^. Find my health not improving; had a full 
conversation with Dr. Warren ; he thinks I have done 
all that can be effected by diet and proposes a journey, a 
change of scene ; my feelings are for a trip to Europe, & 
requested him to speak to Mrs. Appleton on the subject. 
I am eating a dispepsey cracker & a cup of tea for my 
breakfast, a small piece of meat & a cracker for dinner, 
and the same at evening as the morning, yet such is the 
state of my digestion that from flatulence I am most of the 
time in positive pain ; persons not accustomed to the like 
difficulties would think they had an attack of colick. 29'^'. 
My difficulties continue and I am preparing for a voyage 
to England to return this Autumn. 

/i UGUST. Left for New York on the 17th, with rather 
XjL a heavy heart yet quite sure I was doing right. I 
could not get my health without a change and giving up 
my daily occupations. My wife much excited at my leav- 
ing, she thought I might avoid it; but she will soon get 
over it and I fully hope & believe her good, and that of 
my family, will be promoted by so doing. On the morn- 
ing of the 18th I met my excellent friend Mr. N. Apple- 
ton, who had come from Newport to see me off, he has 
ever been true to me, on board the "Great Western," in 



76 William Appleton [1840 

& through a fine country, the entire distance from Bath 
to London. The grounds are in a good state of cultiva- 
tion, the chalk lands not very productive, the dwellings 
are many of them magnificent. On the whole I think the 
ride as interesting as any I have seen; I had no idea of the 
difference between an English and American Rail Road 
before this day, there is as much as between the elegant 
Mansions we have been passing & our Humble Mansions. 
ord^ We find ourselves very comfortable at the Brunswick 
Hotel, Hanover Square; our rooms on ist story above 
the basement, fronting on the Square. Rec'd a kind Note 
from Mr. Wiggin, asking me to come & take a bed at 
his house, which I shall probably accept after a few days. 
Went to the City, called at Baring's; well rec^ by Mr. 
Bates & Mildmay. Went to see my old friend W'" W^s 
Brown; delighted to meet me again. I go tomorrow to 
breakfast with him & some of his children. Called on 
Forbes & Co. I think them intelligent men. 4'^^. Went to 
Mr. Wiggin's, took up our quarters with him; he, full of 
old affairs, pleased to have some persons to hear him talk. 
We went to the City, called at Baring's, got £ 1 00, called 
at some shops; returned home to 28 Parker Crescent in 
the rain, dined pleasantly at six, chatted till 1 1 o'clock, & 
retired. London, Saturday^ ^f^. We went to the City, stop- 
ping at Vauxhall Market, then at the tailor's; returned 
to lunch at One & went again at three to purchase car- 
pets, table linen, etc. Sat up late with Mr. Wiggin, getting 
a history of his early life, to the trouble of poor relations, 
etc. Sunday, 6'^. We went with Mr. & Mrs. Wiggin to 



1840] Diary 77 

Church, a very good looking chapel; pleasant sermon of 
Orthodox character, church not full, very few Males in 
proportion; on our return we stopped to lunch at Mr. 
Timy Wiggin's on Roast beef, Lamb's Head, pudding, 
then Pears & Apples. Mr. Peabody, Mr. Mildmay, Mr. 
Coutts, and Col. Mauray called. We went with Mr. & 
Mrs. Bates to the Zoological Garden; took a drive of some 
three hours through the west part of London, Hyde Park, 
etc. It is beyond anything within the range of my ideas, 
the extent of this city. Saturday, 1 2'^^. Left London at 1 1 
O'clock, arrived at Leamington at 5. Sunday , \Qt'^, Dr. 
Jephson called; on seeing me he asked if I was usually 
so thin, and said my liver wanted looking to, but con- 
cluded that unless I was going to remain some weeks it 
would not be well for me or him to proceed further. He 
bade me good morning, taking no fee; after consulting 
Mr. Montgomery I wrote him a note, & he called again 
& I concluded to make this my principal residence dur- 
ing my stay in England. In the afternoon we rode to Guy's 
Cliff & Warwick Castle. Monday, 14'^'. Left at 9 o'clock 
for Liverpool, the first ten miles in Phaeton to Coving- 
ton 10^., boy 2i., then took Rail Road to Liverpool. Found 
at the Adelphi a bundle of letters from home, all of the 
most pleasing character. Liverpool, 15'^. Went into the 
Coffee room & was much pleased to see A. Lawrence — 
son of Mr. Amos Lawrence; he had just come in from Ire- 
land with his friend. Arr^ at Leamington at seven; found 
Warren on the steps looking for father, id^^'. Dr. Jephson 
called ; after asking variety of questions as to my head, if 



8o William Appleton [1840 

OCTOBER 3'-< Liverpool. Mr. and Mrs. Bates arrived 
from London. I think very well of him &she is a good 
hearted woman, has not much mind. Sunday., 4''^. News 
of the Attack of the British fleet on Beyrout. Mr. Bates 
thinks there will be no war. At midday Mr. and Mrs. Bates 
took a carriage & accompanied me to the Steamer, where 
we took leave. At three o'clock we commenced our voyage, 
the weather very fine, which continued for most of the 
week. On Saturday, at night the wind blew very hard, 
they called it a severe gale; during the gale we made good 
work, from six to eight miles the Hour. We arrived at 
Halifax on Thursday, and arrived on Saturday Morning in 
Boston, thirty-two hours from Halifax, & twelve & a half 
days from Liverpool. Our passage pleasant and an uncom- 
mon pleasant set of passengers. Among them Judge Por- 
ter of Louisiana, Professor Moore of New York, Rev. Mr. 
Strong from Canada, Col. Houston, Col. Gascoin, Capt. 
Shirley and Lady, Maj. Ervin, U. S. A., Mr. Trapman, & 
Mr. Davis of Charleston. There was no dispute or trouble 
during the voyage ; our vessel & Captain, first rate : the ser- 
vants not accustomed to their business but with good in- 
tentions. The "Great Western" much the most comfortable 
Vessel particularly for the summer, ly''^. I find myself at 
home again after an absence of sixty days. My family and 
friends I find well, nothing unpleasant has occurred since 
I left. We had to pass the evening with us, some fifty of 
our passengers and our friends of this place invited to meet 
them. My time taken up in seeing my friends and accom- 



1840] Diary 81 

panying Mr. Stewart, Capt. & Mrs. Shirley to the Navy 
Yard & Bunker Hill. iS^'^. I went to church I trust with 
a grateful heart for the many blessings that surround me. 
19'^^ Went to Mrs. Eustis' to show the House ^ to Capt. 
Shirley. 23''< Delightful day; went with Mrs. A. to see my 
Mother and family. 2^^^. In the course of the night Thunder 
& snow which quite covered the ground, & in the country 
fifty miles, sufficient for sleighing. 30''''. We got accounts 
from New York of the arrival of the "Delhi " from Canton, 
the prospect is in favour of our making a very good voy- 
age, I fancy two hundred thousand dollars net. 

NOVEMBER 17/^^. Capt. Shirley sent me a letter by 
Capt. Le Merchant; he was but one day with us, 
a pleasant gen^man, aide to the Gov. Gen' of Canada. iS^-^. 
Went to our place at Brookline to look after Sheridan who 
had commenced putting out some trees. I find I have some 
cold; doubt if I get through the winter in this climate. 
20"^. Ship "Charlotte" arrived; twenty-eight days from 
Liverpool. 

DECEMBER 2«< Left for New York at the request 
of the Banks in this City to devise measures to 
aid the Banks in Philadelphia to resume specie payment. 
y^^. Left New York in " Narragansett," arrived in Boston 
in fourteen Hours, gf^. Engaged in making up the amount 
required to loan the Phild Banks. My belief is that the 
resumption will be an efficient one ; that the finances of 

' Shirley-Eustis House. 



84 William Appleton [1841 

much the last night by pain in my face and went this 
morning and had two teeth extracted, almost the last of 
my back teeth. An empty house is said to be preferable to 
bad tenants. iS''^. Mrs. Appleton & the young ladies at- 
tended the Ball at Papanti's. 22«< Mrs. Appleton & the 
young ladies were at Mrs. Ticknor's, Frank their beau; the 
parties the present season are more numerous than usual; I 
do not join them. 27'^. Mr. Benj. Gilbert, native of Brook- 
field, a friend of my father & mother, Amory & Mary 
also, dined with us. 30'^^. Wrote Goodhue & Co. to sell one 
thousand of the chests Canton Young Hyson Tea at sev- 
enty cents ; they stating they can get that price from Phil^ : 
speculation. 

FEBRUARY VK We have accounts from China 5th 
Oct.: there appears to be a prospect of an adjustment 
of the difficulties between England & China. The tea hold- 
ers are much alarmed; what will be the effect in this coun- 
try it is quite difficult to say. I fancy when the next news 
comes it will be less alarming and business will begin again, 
but prices will not again get up to those lately obtained. 
2«< Mrs. Appleton had small party. I went the last night 
with the young ladies to the Assembly, quite pleasant — 
although a snowstorm. 3'"< Fine sleighing. Frank & the 
young ladies have gone on a party to Mrs. Guild's with 
Mrs. Ticknor &c. ^'^'. Dined at Mr. Oxnard's, a large & 
pleasant party; Mrs. A. & the young ladies were at Mrs. 
Minot's. &^. We have accounts of the suspension of the 
U. S. Banks of Pennsylvania. I fancy they must go into 



1841] Diary 85 

liquidation — bad — bad — bad. 7'^. Party at Mrs. Am- 
ory's (family Party), g''^. Party, Mrs. Nathan Appleton's, 
very pleasant, ii'^. Party at Mrs. John C. Gray's & Mrs. 
Rogers'. 12'^'. Party, Mrs. George Gardner's. 15/^'. Mrs. Ap- 
pleton & young ladies at Assembly. 24''''. Left for New 
York. I find it very pleasant to have Ira with me. ib^^'. 
Attended sale of tea which sold for about fifteen cents less 
than the price in December. 

MARCH y'K At Church with all the children. Mr. 
Stone preached. 30'''^ Called on Sir George Arthur, 
Gov. Canada. 31^'. Visited Navy Yard, Bunker Hill, & Mt. 
Wachusett with Sir George Arthur, a pleasant, gentle- 
manly man. 

A PRIL 3^< Frank was at dinner with his friends Rod- 
Jr\. man & Nichols. 5''^. This morning we are informed 
of the death of Gen^ Harrison, President of the U. States: 
an event which may produce much derangement in the 
Government, but my belief is that it will rather tend to 
conciliate the feelings of the opposing men to the present 
Colonel, b^^. The engagement between our second daugh- 
ter and Mr. A. A. Lawrence was made known; I have not 
been very desirous that she should accept him at present, 
feeling that she was very young, had seen little of the 
world, with much to attract in her person & manners. I 
wished her to take time & deliberate, but she thinks she 
knows her mind,, and I trust all will be right. He is a 
young man of good common sense, with business habits, 



88 William Appleton [1841 

some 20E Inhabitants. 21^'. Went to view the Troops, a 
Highland Regiment. 23''< Arrived at Montreal (Roscoe's 
Hotel). Captain and Mrs. Shirley took us to the Circus, 
Hussar Barracks, and had the Band entertain us,&c.; dined 
with them very pleasantly. 24^'^. At Church & dined with 
Mess 85th Regiment. 25'^^. Rode with Shirleys to the 
Country and Racecourse to see his Horses, and left for 
Quebec. 26''^. Went with Col. Gascoin and Col. Clive to 
Montmorency and to the Fortifications, Plains of Abra- 
ham, &c. 27/^^. Dined at a Pick Nick at Col. Gascoin's 
Rooms with some dozen Officers; much pleased by their 
attentions; left at evening for Montreal. 28'^^. Mr. & Mrs. 
Shirley & May Dickinson dined with us. 29'^. Col. Gray 
quite civil to us, wished us to remain to see his Regi- 
ment, &c. Arrived at Burlington at 7 A.M., at Ticonderoga 
at 1 1 O'clock, more company than room. op'^'. Went to 
Lake George, delightful day. 3P^ Sunday. We passed the 
day very pleasantly. 

AUGUST vf. Arrived at Saratoga, slept at Troy. 2«< 
l\. Dined at Mr. Warren's and took passage for New 
York. ord. " Akbar" with Mrs. Coolidge arrived from Can- 
ton, ^t^. Arrived in Boston and found all well. 26'''^ Mr. 
R. D. Shepherd dined with us & passed the night. 

OCTOBER VK Col. Bentinck of the Coldstream 
Guards dined with us; a gentlemanly person. 2«< 
Took Col. Bentinck to Boston, he sailed in the Steamer for 

* Mr. Joseph Coolidge was in business there with Mr. Heard. 



1841] Diary 89 

Liverpool. 24^^^. At Trinity Church, took Lord Morpeth. 
Bishop of Tennessee preached. 29'''^ Amory 23 years old. 

NOVEMBER l^^ Engaged in preparing to get the 
" Charlotte " ready for a voyage to India. 24'''^ Ball at 
Faneuil Hall for the Prince.^ 25^^^, T^hanks giving. Party of 
some fifty at my House. J. A. Appleton's first child born. 
29'-^. Quite an excitement in the Money Market. 30'^. 
Rode with Mr. Abbott Lawrence; he is quite alarmed for 
great Houses in London. 

DECEMBER 4'/'. My old friend Dr. Potter^ arrived 
and will pass a few days at our House. W^K Dr. Pot- 
ter Preached at St. Paul's, Trinity & Grace Church, I like 
him better than ever; he is first rate; he has character and 
more tact than any man of his profession I ever knew. 
Christmas. Mrs. Amory, daughters, & Thomas, Mr. & Mrs. 
N. Amory, Mr. Lawrence and all our children dined with 
us. They appeared happy, not so with me as I see by the 
New Tork American that were indicted for get- 
ting goods by false pretences. This will be a most distress- 
ing business; they must lose their reputation at best, and the 
interesting family suffer unjustly for their father's indiscre- 
tion; he does not intend doing wrong but he comes so near 
it in thought and action that it is difficult to find an excuse 
for him. 



Prince de Joinville. Quincy and Faneuil Halls were connected for the occasion. 
'Afterwards Bishop of Pennsylvania. 



92 William Appleton [1842 

to Mr. Lawrence. I found my feelings various & conflict- 
ing; the giving up of an affectionate, kind, lovely daughter 
causes sensations not easily described. I have much con- 
fidence in him, and great in her judgment & kindness of 
heart. I think if she has health she will be a useful woman. 
The ceremony was performed by Mr. Vinton in a very 
acceptable manner, in the presence of many of our rela- 
tions & friends; after which our House was filled with our 
acquaintances; they left generally at ^ past ten when 
the wedding party of about sixty supped informally. Thus 
ended the day, and I surrendered my dear second daughter 
to another's care with ardent prayer to Almighty God to 
grant her His protection and the blessings of His grace. 

APRIL 15'^^. Amory's son was christened George Ly- 
L man. They (the father & mother) dined with us. ib''^. 
Frank & myselfcalled on Dr. Warren in relation to Frank's 
going to China. 19'''^. Arrived at New York, engaged in ar- 
ranging tea sale. 2 V^. Arrived at home, found all busy with 
various business getting Frank's arrangements made, &c.; 
David Sears, jr., is going with Frank to China. 22«< Went 
in Morning with Mrs. A. & most of the family to prayers 
at Chapel. Engaged in Business as usual, a meeting at Mr. 
Reynolds' at evening. 23^"'^. Quite occupied, too much 
so for my own good. 28''''. Much engaged in getting the 
"Delhi" ready for sea. At 5 o'clock she left the wharf with 
our dear Frank as passenger in company with David Sears, 
jr., and the son of Mr. George Howe. I felt much in part- 
ing with my dear boy ; there is much in him to love & ad- 



1842] Diary 93 

mire, proud & independent, careful of his Reputation, ex- 
cellent feelings, opinionated, not inclined to be much con- 
troulled, yet would not act in opposition to his father. His 
intercourse with men will improve him; I feel as if he had 
within him the talents to be very useful and acceptable 
in the World. 30'^'. Went to Cambridge with Mr. Vinton; 
called on Mr. Greenleaf, much talk as to Theological 
Seminary: I said, "Now is the time to begin; if you Gent^ 
will put things as they should be, I will purchase the House 
opposite the Craigie place, if it is to be had for ten thousand 
dollars. Wind West — fine time the "Delhi " probably has. 

MAY i^''. Communion Sunday. I have never before 
felt so much interest in Missions; I feel much in- 
clined to give the balance of my income to religious ob- 
jects, not confined to Missionaries, but to the education 
of ministers & workers for Christ. I feel that it is a true 
test of a man's religion, his desire to impart it to others. 
Monday Morning, 2«< My mind dwelt most of the night on 
the subject of which I was contemplating last evening. I 
think my true course is to spend my income as above stated. 
Amory fully agrees with me in the course I propose. 2']'^^. 
Arrived at home from New York. Mary Ann with Amory 
and wife & Master George gone to see my Mother. 29'^'. 
An interesting day to us: Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence, Mary 
Ann & forty-five others have been confirmed by Bishop 
Griswold. I have seldom felt more grateful to kind Provi- 
dence than this day in seeing my children go to the Altar 
& making a publick profession of religion. 



96 William Appleton [1842 

mind, aged eighty-six the last February. 27'^. Funeral ser- 
vice performed by the Minister of Mount Vernon at the 
late residence of my Mother. I left after the service with 
the Corpse, remained at Nashua for the night; the follow- 
ing day we had a funeral service in St. Paul's Church^ by 
Mr. Watson, the minister of Mount Vernon; Dr. Warren 
& our family were present and the body was deposited in 
my tomb under the Church. 

JULY 1^'. We have Pres* Tyler's Veto of little Tariff- 
bad business. 22«< Amory & family left us to pass a few 
days at Waltham; he is a great comfort to me. If he has 
health he will be a useful man in society. A fine boy he 
has. 23''< Went with Warren, Mary Ann, Harriet, Hetty, 
Charles and Miss E. Warren to witness the putting on the 
top stone of Bunker Hill Monument. Dr. Warren and 
Miss Emily dined with us. 

AUGUST ord. Played billiards with Col. Perkins as 
. usual. 5'^'. Passed an hour with Mr. Healy who is 
about taking my pourtrait.^ 1 2'^K Bad state of affairs at 
Washington, I think as well of Tyler as of the Whigs. 22«< 
Went with Mr. Lawrence & Mr. Sturgis to see the Mayor 
in relation to receiving Lord Ashburton. 2^f^^. Lord Ash- 
burton arrived from Springfield. Went to the railroad depot 
with Mr. Lawrence and took him to the Tremont House. 
2()'^K Went to the Navy yard & Mr. Cushing's with Lord 
Ashburton & several other gentlemen; he is a very pleas- 

' Boston. 'Owned by Mrs. L. M. Sargent, Pride's Crossing. 



1842] Diary 97 

ant man. ly^. Went to Faneuil Hall with the Mayor to re- 
ceive Lord Ashbur ton & dined with him at Mr, Lawrence's. 
30''''. Miss Mary Ann Stevens, my niece, has come to Boston 
to get furniture. I gave her $1000.00. We hear from Wash- 
ington that the Tariff is Hkely to pass (quite pleasing). 

SEPTEMBER 3^^/. "Horatio" is in from Canton— 108 
days. W'k Mrs. A. sitting to Mr. Healy for Portrait. 
20'-^. Went to see Healy's portrait of Mrs. Appleton; have 
not given an opinion, and heard none but Mrs. A.'s. It is 
a failure altogether in my opinion. 22«< Left for Phila- 
delphia with a large party. 1<\^^K Went to Pottsville with 
Messrs. N. Appleton, P. T. Jackson, Sturgis, Mills, Sargent, 
Thayer, Capt. Cooper & J. Codman — Visited Coal mines, 
etc., much interested; fine Rail Road. 30'^'. Mr. Webster 
reed his friends at Faneuil Hall. He made a good speech, 
crowded Hall; I liked what he said. 

OCTOBER 3^< Left for New York with Dr. Vinton, 
W" F. Otis, George Dexter & Rev. Mr. Watson 
to invite Dr. Eastburn to become Bishop. 4"^'. Went by ap- 
pointment to see the Rev^ Gent" who, in a business like 
manner, accepted the call of the Diocese & Church, lb'''-'. 
The last a most miserable night to me. I was so much 
troubled with pain in my face that I hardly got any sleep, 
faint in the Morning and sent for Drs. Warren & Flagg; 
applied poultices, but no relief from the pain. 19'^'. Dr. 
Warren came to see me and recommended sending for Dr. 
Flagg; he came and opened my Gum in a different place 



loo William Appleton [1843 

it very important that he should change the cHmate. 27'^. 
Went to Beverly to see Mrs. Appleton, the Wife of our 
Uncle, Mr. Tho^ Appleton, the sister of the late Nathan 
Dane; she was One hundred & One years Old Oct, last. She 
has her faculties generally, but is quite deaf; she is quite 
erect & moves with ease. 

FEBRUARY 7/^. At Mrs. Greene's to see a woman 
Magnetized. 13'^'. Meeting Mass"' Mills Company; 
I was chosen President, contrary to my wishes, but I was 
led to believe it would be beneficial to my Interest & 
others'. i^^^K While sitting with my daughter Mrs. L. & 
Mary Ann at Mr. Lawrence's,^ who was present, Sarah said, 
"Bishop Griswold is crossing to this side of the Square." 
She had hardly finished the sentence till she said, "He has 
fallen." I went immediately to him on the sidewalk oppo- 
site Bishop Eastburn's; the lad who lives with Mr. Law- 
rence was endeavouring to raise him; I assisted, when up he 
walked with our aid a few steps; when he began to ascend 
the steps, on the third step his strength failed him and he 
for a moment rested his weight on us till others came, and 
we carried him into Bishop Eastburn's study and laid him 
on the floor. Drs. Jackson & Mason Warren were with us 
immediately, but within ten minutes from the time he fell 
he was dead and without a struggle. I then went with Dr. 
Vinton to inform Mrs. Griswold; then made arrangements 
to get the body removed to his House; which being done, 
attended a very interesting discourse & prayers at our 

' In Pemberton Square. 



1843] Diary 101 

Chapel with Dr. Vinton, i-j'^. Engaged in getting sub- 
scriptions for Foreign Missions. I feel as much interest as 
I almost ever did in making money; may my zeal last I 
20'^. We hear from Amory at Havana; much improved; 
he left us twenty-four days since, which is a short time. 
2F^ Engaged in looking after Mrs. G.'s affairs, wife of our 
late Bishop. Miss Julia Ward dined with us. 

APRIL 7'^. At S. A. Appleton's, by request of Mr. 
l\. Webster. Had from him a Statement of what was 
thought would be the policy of the English Government 
& of the Southern States, to do away with the protection on 
our domestic industry. W^. Our dear Frank came in upon 
us at 7 A.M. from Canton. 2ord, I am much troubled by 
a letter from Mr. T. C. Amory in relation to the illness of 
Amory, but no particulars; I fear he has been bleeding at 
the lungs; a purer man seldom lived or died. 24^''^ I reed 
a letter from T. C. A. stating that our dear Amory was 
quite ill from bleeding at the lungs. ib^^. Rec^ letter from 
Amory, he thinks he shall be able to leave 1st May for 
Charleston. I shall go on with his Wife to meet him. 2()'^. 
Went to South Boston to call on Dr. and Mrs. Howe, late 
Julia Ward. Meeting in relation to a new church: more 
zeal than discretion. 

MAY G''^. Cold East wind, old fashioned Spring. 10'^'. 
Sent Bishop Eastburn a letter stating I would give 
the Missionary Society of this City ten thousand dollars 
to build a place of Worship when they have procured a 



104 William Appleton [1843 

uary to Cuba, & thought himself much improved until 1st 
April, when after an excursion to the Country & Matan- 
zas he was attacked with bleeding from the lungs. May 
15th he left Havana in the Brig "Haynes" for Charleston 
and arrd on the 22nd. On the 27th Frank & myself met 
him there. We were most fortunate in having tried a voyage 
and change of climate that we got him home to those he 
most loved. God gave him, and a great blessing he has 
been. God has taken him; I feel I can truly say, "Thy will 
be done"; I pray I may continue to feel so. 

JULY H^ This day we took the remains of our dear 
Amory to St. Paul's Church, where we found a large 
Congregation of our friends & acquaintances. The services 
were performed by Dr. Vinton and the body placed in 
our family tomb. We returned to Brookline, Mary (his 
wife) with us. It was a solemn, trying day, but I think we 
all showed as much fortitude as could be expected; no 
one could doubt our feelings; all loved him most dearly. 
3^"^. I find I took cold yesterday & seldom suffered more 
pain than the last night, principally in the side, much 
pain in my Shoulder and Collar Bone which was broken 
many years since. The trouble turns out to be the influenza 
or Grip. I suffer much in my Muscles and Shoulder — 
no fever. 10^^. Mr. Wolcott called while we were at Break- 
fast with a Newspaper stating the disaster of the Steamer 
"Columbia." Went to Boston. Mrs. Lawrence had her first 
daughter Christened, named for my Wife — Mary Ann 
Appleton. I feel little Interest in business. 



1843] Diary 105 

AUGUST 4^^. Went to the City; had a very pleasant 
^ conversation with Mrs. William R. Gray; when I 
communicate with such a person I feel as if I was not 
worthy of the name of Christian. 14'^'. Most delightful sea- 
son, the Country never looked better, the grass as green 
as in June. 2Wk Frank left us for Cambridge to attend the 
Law School. 

SEPTEMBER 8'^'. Mary & Mr. Lyman dined with us 
on their way from Nahant to Watertown. 12'^'. Mr. & 
Mrs. Longfellow dined with us. iS''^. Went to Mt. Auburn 
to select a lot with Mary & Mr. Lyman. 30'-^. Removed 
to the City; every change brings dear Amory to my mind. 

NOVEMBER 25/^'. I am thinking I should give some 
money to Religious or benevolent purposes; if pos- 
sible to strictly, unite the two. I am not likely to spend 
my income this year. I have the Widows' Society under my 
consideration. 

DECEMBER 2«< Wrote a letter to the Trustees of 
the Gen' Hospital enclosing ten thousand dollars for 
the use (or the income of it) of patients in the McLean 
Asylum whose friends cannot pay their expenses until re- 
covered. I hope I shall continue to feel disposed to part with 
my income; considering my property worth one million 
of dollars. 

[ Copy of Letter follow s'\ 



io8 William Appleton [1843 

that a man may be zealous in business, successful in his 
undertakings without the desire of increasing an ample 
fortune; able to strive to make money, to distribute the 
same for the good of his fellow beings beyond his own 
blood! I much fear I shall not hold out, but I pray it may 
be so. I feel much pleasure in what I have done. My be- 
setting sin is the desire of success, not so much for the 
love of money, as for successful occupation. In other words, 
it is Pride. My business has been prosperous, I think my- 
self worth a million of dollars, independent of the profit 
arising from our business of William Appleton & Co. We 
have three ships now on voyages to Canton. 

1844 

JANUARY ']^^. Dr. Vinton gave us two excellent ser- 
mons; in the morning "What is your life? " He alluded 
to Mr. Tuckerman and our dear Amory, spoke of his early 
Piety, etc. 8'''^. Engaged in arranging our accounts & mak- 
ing up Amory's Estate which proves to be about One Hun- 
dred & sixteen thousand dollars, his own earnings. Called 
at Mr. Lyman's; had a long pleasant talk in relation to 
Mary & Master George L. Appleton. lo'''^ Fine sleigh- 
ing, our young people rode in the Open Sleigh. 1 V^^ Our 
family dined together, all present. Frank's vacation; very 
pleasant to see them all together with so much means of 
happiness. 22«< Our dear Mary Ann is suffering much 
from a fall three days since down the chamber stairs: she is 
unable to retain anything on her stomach, a teaspoonful 



1844] Diary 109 

of brandy and water distresses her. We feel some anxiety 
about her. 26'^'. Mary Ann took two Tea spoons of Jelly 
made without anything except Calves feet, salt and brandy. 

FEBRUARY 1 Vft. For nearly two weeks I have been 
confined to the House with a cold. Mary Ann has been 
in her bed most of the same time with a dyspeptic turn 
brought on by a fall. I do not regret the confinement; I feel 
every time I am called from the business World as if I were 
better for it. Frank is a great comfort to me, Warren all I 
could wish, and Mary Ann, pleasant, good, for this world 
or eternity. I am much gratified by the attentions of my 
friends who come to visit me as if they valued me. Col. 
Perkins has been often. 

MARCH ^(^. Mr. Lyman passed an hour with me, 
took home the papers relating to our dear Amory's 
estate. He appears to be well satisfied with all that has 
been done; I fully believe that is the fact; they are a very 
silent family but kind and well intentioned. I have been 
most anxious to have all turn out well, and few transac- 
tions of my life have given me more satisfaction than to be 
able to see my dear son's wife and child independent from 
his exertions ; he left them One hundred & fifteen thou- 
sand dollars of his own earnings. \V^. Rode to Medford 
with Dr. Vinton to see the new ship "Hamlet" on her way 
down the River, ig'-''. Letters from Canton to 24th Nov., 
by "Lucas." 2o'^^ Meeting at George M. Dexter's office in 
relation to a Missionary Chapel; the Bishop, Dr. Vinton, 



112 William Appleton [1844 

Chapel. Much to our annoyance the contractors have be- 
come Millerites; left their business, given up all work. 

NOVEMBER 4'^^. We are quite engaged in making 
arrangements for Mary Ann's Wedding. 5'-^. The 
birthday of our third daughter, and much more interest- 
ing as the Marriage day of our eldest daughter, which was 
solemnized at St. Paul's Church by Dr. Vinton at yi past 
four o'clock, with the church well filled with spectators, 
among them many of our friends. We returned to our 
House, dined; a family party with some in addition num- 
bering thirty-six. I feel that I am parting with a daughter 
of great piety and good sense, and quite important as an 
example to her younger sisters. She has always been obe- 
dient to my wishes, kind to all about her, and truly de- 
voted to the cause of Religion, I shall feel her absence at 
our morning and evening exercises; she has taken Amory's 
place with me in some respects. May God bless & support 
her under all trials, y^'. Warren left us for Schenectady; 
he has made himself very dear to me by his good conduct 
and very kind disposition. We are yet much excited as to 
the result of the Election. S''^. All our hopes for electing 
Mr. Clay have vanished by the returns from New York. 
I went this morning with my son Frank & Dr. Vinton to 
Mount Auburn where we committed to the tomb, being 
taken from St. Paul's, the remains of her who gave me 
birth, my dear Son Amory, and that of our infant child Ed- 
ward. It was like again parting with them. I felt it much, 
very much. 



1845] Diaiy 113 

DECEMBER \Vh. There was a northeast storm with 
_ snow last night. A ship from Calcutta was totally lost 
ofFour light House on Point Allerton. 26'^^. Not quite well, 
I fancy from taking Champagne yesterday. 31^^ Warren, 
our second son, has become engaged to marry Miss War- 
ren, one of the best women within my knowledge; the 
only regret is his forming an engagement so soon. 



1845 

JANUARY l^^ The year commences with a bright day, 
very mild. Went in the afternoon with Col. Perkins to 
.Mr. Alger's foundry; we saw there cast a cannon said to 
weigh twenty-five Tons. g'-''. Anniversary of our Wedding 
day, thirty years since. 18''^. More ice than I ever saw on 
our sidewalks ; the trees look beautifully. 20'^. Dr. Putnam 
of Roxbury & Mr. N. Bowditch dined with us. We went 
with Dr. Potter to hear Mr. Webster before the Rail Road 
Committee of the Legislature. 

MARCH 4'^. The conversation is of the Annexation 
of Texas. My feeling is within ten years we shall 
think it a blessing instead of a curse. 6'^'. Dined with Mrs. 
Amory, my Wife's birthday; her mother is bright but not 
long for this world. 24^^^. Laying the Corner Stone of St. 
Stephen's Chapel by Bishop Eastburn. Large assemblage 
of persons, very interesting. Meeting Proprietors St. Paul's 
Church; very Harmonious. 



114 William Appleton [1845 

A PRIL 4'^^. We have accounts by "Natches" from Can- 
-Za. ton, 78 days passage. 1 1'^. Family at dinner includ- 
ing Miss Warren. IQ'-''. Meeting in relation to the Sufferers 
in Pittsburg. 

MAY 5'^^. Left for Schenectady. 6'^. Found a wel- 
come reception; Warren pleasantly situated, 2^*^. 
Election Day, so called; there is a general turnout of 
Militia. 

JULY 4/''^ Our Servants and children went to Boston 
to see the fireworks, ^th^ This morning we were in- 
formed by note from Mr. Lawrence that Sarah has a sec- 
ond daughter; we are all quite happy. A word as to my 
health. When the warm weather came I found myself 
troubled with flatulence which increased till I found I must 
make a change. Dr. Warren said he believed if I would 
confine myself to Bread, meat & Water I should correct 
the difficulty. I commenced that night, took % tumbler of 
water (without ice), a piece of coarse bread made of the 
whole of wheat for my supper. In the morning I took cold 
water, beefsteak & coarse bread for breakfast; at dinner 
the same & have continued that system of diet, only chang- 
ing occasionally for mutton at dinner, to this time, and I 
feel as well as I did six months since, (^f^'. Funeral proces- 
sion in honour of General Jackson. 



1845] Diary n^ 

A UGUST 4'^''. Sat to Mr. Cheney^ in the morning. 
l\ iS'^'. Went to Lowell with Mr. Pakenham, Her Maj- 
esty's Minister to this Country, Mr. Mclvers, Col. Perkins 
and Mr. R. C. Winthrop;a very pleasant day & time we 
had. 19''''. We are considerably disturbed by the apprehen- 
sion of War with Mexico. Played Billiards with Col. Per- 
kins. Still troubled with dispepsy. 2&^'. Went with Mr. 
Otis to see Mr. Forbes' Ship "Massachusetts" having a 
steam propeller to aid in making her passage; I doubt the 
success of the enterprise. 

SEPTEMBER i&^'. Reed a letter saying my niece, 
Mrs. Stowell, was quite ill. 17/^'. Started 6 o'clock for 
Fitzwilliam; arrived at 3 P.M.; found My Niece quite 
low, I think it possible she may recover. 18^^'. Returned to 
Boston to dine. 

OCTOBER g'^K Our son J. Warren married to Emily 
Warren; we are fully satisfied with his choice; she is 
a fine woman with excellent principles and good disposi- 
tion. I think his opportunities for happiness are as good as 
almost any young Man; his education has been neglected, 
but he appears to be disposed to correct the defect. His 
principles we believe to be good; his appearance and man- 
ners quite in his favour; they will have the good wishes and 
Prayers of many. 13'^'. Went to Waltham with Mrs. Apple- 
ton and found Mrs. Greene had been delivered of a Son at 

* Owned by W. A, Lawrence, hanging at 122 Commonwealth Avenue. 



ii6 William Appleton [1845 

5 o'clock P.M.; we have much to be grateful for. \b'^. 
Warren & wife left in Ship "Burgundy" for Havre in good 
spirits. I felt much in parting with them, yet I am satisfied 
it is right they should go. ig'-^. Put in the Box at church 
five Hundred dollars for Domestic Missions. May God 
bless the means and give a better heart to the contribu- 
tors. 26^^'. I fear I part with money more because I feel it a 
duty than from a higher motive I I pray sincerely for bet- 
ter and more elevated motives. 31^^ Col. Everest of Her 
Majesty's Artillery at dinner; he is rough, but an intelli- 
gent man. 

NOVEMBER 14''^. We had a party at dinner, Judge 
Woodbury, Mr. Webster, Mr. Everett, Mr. Win- 
throp, Mr. N. Appleton, Mr. A. Lawrence, Judge Shaw, 
Mr. Sturgis, F. C. Gray and Mr. Sears; very pleasant. 16'-^. 
This day brings to an end my fifty-eighth year, I cannot 
realize that I am this old. I do not feel that I am an old 
man, yet I have much to admonish me, in the use of 
Glasses, loss of memory, and even in my limbs when rap- 
idly going up Stairs. I have had very imperfect health yet 
I have generally been able to direct and attend to business. 
I feel the responsibility I have on me in taking a stand as 
a Christian ; that I am looked on by some of my friends, 
doubting whether I shall adhere to my professions. I find 
nothing like intrusion, but something like doubting in 
their minds as to the reality of the change. Rec^ presents 
from my Grandsons: a locket with his Hair from the one, 

6 from Mr. George "The Sermon on the Mount" beauti- 



1845] Diary 117 

fully got up. Fine day. ly'''', 'thanksgiving Day, Most Vio- 
lent rain. Went to Trinity Church, where we solemnly 
dedicated our Grandson, J. S, Copley, to Almighty God. 
My daughter, Mrs. Lawrence, and myself stood as spon- 
sors. 

DECEMBER 2«< Attended the funeral of Mrs, Ack- 
erman, who has suffered much the last year. She was 
in our family during the births of most of our Children; 
an Excellent Woman, ord. Cold, unpleasant day; went to see 
Mrs. Ackerman's mother, out most of the morning. Getting 
over my cold. 4^^^. President's Message is published this 
morning; I do not feel that we are to get into a War in 
relation to Oregon. I believe they will change the Tariff 
materially, but not eventually to injure the Interests of 
the Cotton manufacturers. 10'^'. Attended the opening of 
the House of Refuge. I have had & have now doubts as 
to the success of the establishment, but finding for years 
there were persons who fully believed in the utility of the 
place, more than two years ago I began a subscription; it 
was not found to meet the patronage of the publick, but 
eventually they got fifteen thousand dollars. I then ex- 
tended my subscription to five thousand dollars. The pres- 
ent building has been erected by my movement, but I can- 
not say I have acted from any high motives, but should 
it please God to bless the Institution and use me as an in- 
strument, the honour be to Him, and to Him alone. I felt 
humbled at seeing so much interest shown by others this 
morning and finding myself so little affected. Oh, may my 



ii8 William Appleton [1845 

life that remains be such as to deserve the commendation 
which I undeservedly have shown me. 12'^. Meetings, 
Nashua, Jackson & Salmon Falls Companies; large Profits 
and good dividends. IQ'^'^ The Oregon Question looks bad 
on both sides, but will be settled without War. 31^'. This 
brings to a close another year. One son married with our 
entire approbation, another engaged to a lovely woman.^ 

1846 

THIS commences a new year, the events of which are 
wisely out of our sight. In the business world there 
is much agitation as to War with England; I do not much 
fear it. 

JANUARY 6'^. Engaged in getting up 50=^ for Mr. 
Webster. Miss Harriet had a party of young people 
to the extent of sixty or eighty; it was said to go off well 
— a poor business; I do not like it. 2S^^. Annual Meeting 
Mass«s Geni Hospital Corporation.^ 

FEBRUARY 3^< We hear of the loss of our Ship 
"Hamlet"; I find myself very much discomposed by 
the loss of property; I have less controul over my feelings 
than I should have supposed until tried, lo''''. Meeting at 
the Bishop's in relation to a Theological Seminary; I had 
a long talk with Mr. Mason in relation to it. 14'^. Frank, 
Harriet, with some twenty friends went to Mr. Greene's, 

*Miss Georgiana Silsbee. ^ He was President of the Board of Trustees. 



1846] Diary 119 

Waltham, in the evening; fine sleighing. \']'^K Master 
Charles had a sleighing party. 

MARCH \V/^. Sale of Phillips Estate in this Street. 
Lots on Beacon St., 180 feet depth, sold for four dol- 
lars the square foot. 30''^. Fine bright day. Went to Salem 
to attend the Wedding of our now eldest Son, Frank ; we 
are quite satisfied with the connection; we think his choice 
a judicious one; a Woman of good temper, kind in her 
feelings, and a fair share of understanding; their prospects 
are as good as almost any. May He who directs all give 
them Grace to follow that course that will give Peace in 
Time, & Happiness in Eternity. 3F'. Passed the night at 
Mr. N. Silsbee, Jr.'s. 

APRIL W'\ Easter Siiinday. On my knees did I sup- 
L plicate my God this morning that I might through 
His grace be enabled to give my mind to His service this 
day. lo^^K We have much pleasure in the arrival of Warren 
& his wife in the "Caledonia" from Liverpool. IVK Went 
to Brookline with Col. Tod, ambassador to St. Petersburg. 

MAY VK Mrs. Appleton gave a party for Frank, War- 
ren and their Wives; about sixty persons; called 
pleasant; a Band of musick, but there was very little plea- 
sure to me, or, as I could learn, to any one else — all tired. 
ord^ "Cambria" Ashore on Cape Cod. 12'^'. Engaged in 
making Preparation for our contemplated journey to the 
South. 13'^^ Left for New York, ^vV^ Norwich. 15/^'. Arrivd 



120 William Applet on [1846 

at Philadelphia to dine. iG'-^. Arrived at Washington at 
seven o'clock; found ourselves well located. 18^'^. Went 
with Mrs. Webster & our Ladies to the Capitol, House 
and Senate; rode to Navy Yard, called on Geni Hender- 
son. 19^^. At the President's in the evening; Poor concern. 
20^>^. Party at Madam Calderon's, formerly Miss Inglis; 
quite fashionable. 2V^. Went to the Races, dined at Mr. 
Webster's; small party. 22«< Party at Mrs. Grinnell's, 
quite pleasant, many of our acquaintances there. 23^^/. 
Went down the River in Steamer "Mass"s"; dined with 
Mr. Pakenham. 2^^^. Left Washington at 6 A.M. for Phil^. 
26^^. We have had warm summer weather, strawberries 
in abundance for ten days past; dined at Bishop Potter's. 
30'^. Arrived in Boston, found all well. 31^'. Took Capt. 
Eliot and Lady to Church. Our son Frank confirmed with 
10 others. 

JUNE 3''< Went to Cambridge to see Mr. Greenleaf in 
relation to Seminary. 9"^. All dined at Brookline; rather 
in confusion, but all will come right. 12'^^ The Conven- 
tion closed its session with my proposition for a Divinity 
School; it was well received; but whether it will be car- 
ried into effect is doubtful in my mind. I think much 
good would be derived by the Institution, but God will 
devise all for good. 

JULY H^ Engaged most of the morning on business 
of Charles River Bridge. 28'^^^ Much doubt & excite- 
ment as to the passing of the Tariff bill of Mr. McKay. 



1846] Diary 121 

30'^. We have accounts of the passage of the tariff; I 
think it will do less mischief than is expected; Carpets & 
Muslin-de-Laines will be partially given up and some 
fine, plain and printed cottons will be less made in this 
Country. 

SEPTEMBER 2&K Went to meet Mr. Upjohn at 
the Purchase Street Chapel. I find very little interest 
others take in this affair; I fear I have less zeal than when 
I commenced it, yet, if I am not made better by it, others 
may be. 

OCTOBER 5^^. St. Stephen's Chapel Consecrated. 
The services were very appropriate; Housequite full. 
It was an interesting day to me, the finishing of a work 
which had been a long time in progress. I feel that I have 
made an additional pledge to live more nearly to the re- 
ligion I profess. 15'^'. Our Ship "Cygnet" sailed for Bata- 
via. 23''< Breakfasted with Mr. F. C. Gray and a party of 
gentlemen. 

NOVEMBER 7'^. Attended the funeral of my friend, 
D. L. Pickman, at Salem; a man of strong mind and 
highhonour; a Merchant of the first class — much esteemed. 
16^^. I am this day sixty years old; little have I done in pre- 
paration for Eternity; at times I think myself stationary in 
religious character. I trust I feel more dependence on my 
Maker. I verilybelieve I oughtto prevent my children going 
as much in the World as they do, but sometimes I think it 



124 William Appleton [1847 

the Irish & Scotch famine. iS''^. Meeting at Faneuil Hall, 
very fully attended, for the relief of the sufferers in Ireland. 
20'^. Steamer arrivd from Liverpool; anxiously looked for. 
We find less news than we expected: there will be much 
distress before July among the lower classes, and what is 
to be a permanent remedy is difficult to imagine. 

MARCH 2«< Fine sleighing, all in motion. 7'^^. Com- 
munion at Church; remained at home on account 
of cold in the afternoon. Dr. Warren recommended Bath, 
mustard poultices, &c. I remained in the House without 
much change until Friday night when I was attacked with 
a pain while in bed, very severe in my left side ; we soon 
determined to call the servants and send for Dr. Mason 
Warren. It turned out to be a regular attack of pleurisy, 
but by blisters, etc., very little fever continued after the pain 
subsided. The following Wednesday Mrs. Appleton's good 
Mother had another attack of apoplexy, and died Wednes- 
day evening, 24th, without a struggle. She was entombed 
on Saturday, 27th. I rode to the House to take a last look on 
her whom I much loved and respected, but I was not suffi- 
ciently well to attend the services at Trinity. Mrs. Amory, 
the only daughter of the late Gov. Sullivan, died at the Age 
of seventy-four. A Lady of much energy, of character, com- 
manding in her appearance, of a strong mind, and I believe 
from early hfe governed by truly Christian principles. My 
intercourse with her from the death of Mr. Amory, for nearly 
twenty years, was very intimate; we always had a good 
understanding; she expected frankness and received the 



1847] Diary 125 

truth, whether pleasant or otherwise, with courtesy. She 
often spoke with gratitude of my services to her & her fam- 
ily, and much overrated my kindness of heart. She left with 
her Will a most affectionate letter for me, written some 
years since, to be delivered with one from Mr. Wm. Sulli- 
van,^ both of which I shall continue to value much, as evi- 
dence of their good opinion, 

APRI L 1 Qf^. Accounts of Capture of Vera Cruz and death 
-/ -L of Capt. Vinton. 2 1^^ Was very much provoked with 
Robert, my servant, and spoke very roughly to him. I took 
occasion to say to him that I made a mistake in thus speak- 
ing, and I felt better satisfied with myself for so doing. 



M 



AY 16'^^. Captain Forbes returned from the Mission 
of Mercy to Ireland; he was absent seven weeks. 



JUNE 2«< Our family removed to Brookline; apple 
trees in full bloom. 10'^. Passed the morning at the 
Convention of our Diocese; much pleased with Mr. Ed- 
son's report on Church extension; the business conducted 
with more regularity than usual. \2^^. Harriet had some 
of her friends at tea & in the evening, consisting of the 
Misses Lyman, Prescott, Peabody, Gray, etc. 17'^. Steamer 
arrived. Brought the word of the total loss of the " Mary 
Ellen." 23''< Party of Ladies, Genmn & Children at Mr. 
Greene's, Waltham, to meet Tom Thumb. Very pleasant, 
delightful afternoon. 28''^. Frank came to Brookline; I can- 

» Her brother. 



128 William Appleton [1847 

nected; I trust my life has been extended that I might 
become more fitted for His Service on earth & prepared 
for another existence. 20'-^. Mr. G. sent for me to come and 
see him; he informed me that his brother was embarrassed. 
I think it is a very bad business, that Mr. G. will lose half 
of his property. I fear if I were to lose my property I 
should not behave like a man or a Christian. 23''< I feel 
much for Mr. G.; much engaged in his affairs and I trust 
I shall get him out with 150m & House. Went to see 
Laura Bridgman. 30'^'. Mr. & Mrs. Webster, Mr. & Mrs. 
Tucker, Mr. & Mrs. Coolidge, Mr. & Mrs. F. C. Lowell, 
Mr. & Mrs. Greene, Mrs. Rotch, Mrs. A. A. Lawrence, 
Mr. N. Appleton, Mr. C. G. Loring, Mr. F. C. Gray, Mr. 
Paige and Dr. Scoresby dined with us; pleasant Party. 

DECEMBER vf. Went with Dr. Scoresby to hear Mr. 
Sturgis lecture on the Indians of North America. 
25'^', Christmas. My friend, Hon^ie Sami Hubbard, died 
the last night; he was among my early acquaintances in 
Boston; he was one of our Groomsmen. 

1848 

JANUARY 1^^ Most of our family came to dine & 
some young persons at Evening. In commencing a 
new year we look back on the past. I have had less busi- 
ness, less perplexities, consequently less trials of my tem- 
per; my charities have not been large. My income much 
less than for some years, yet I could well spare more but 



1848] Diary 129 

the objects that come in my way have not been such as 
to produce the strongest Interest. I have sent the means 
to build a Church in China,^ five thousand dollars. I dis- 
tributed five Hundred Copies of the memoir or life of Mr. 
Simeon, an eminent Divine of Cambridge, England. It is 
my intention to close my commercial affairs as our ships 
arrive. It might be for my good to have the employment 
and I might be useful to others; on the other hand, I may 
be in the way of others and should I be called suddenly 
it would leave my family many perplexities. 12^'^. Mis- 
sionary sermon at St. Paul's Church — not well attended. 
It is very strange there should be so little interest in Mis- 
sions, ly-^. Went to see Dr. Warren & Dr. Bell as to Frank. 
They with Mason determined that no time should be lost 
in sending him to the Hospital; accordingly I made ar- 
rangements for so doing; in the Afternoon I went to his 
House with Dr. Mason Warren who told him the deci- 
sion of his Medical Advisers; he said he did not agree 
with them, but when I made a strong appeal to his kind 
feelings, he said he would go if I wished it. He went very 
quietly, after bidding his wife goodbye with a kiss. I have 
had few or no more trying scenes in the course of my 
Hfe. Oh, that I could with truth say. Lord, Thy Will be 
done ! Dr. Warren thinks by attention to his diet he will re- 
cover, igf^. Went to see dear Frank and found him comfort- 
able and contented, which is a great gratification to us all. 

' On a picture of this Chapel now owned by Mrs. Frederic Cunningham is writ- 
ten: "First Epis. Missionary Chapel erected in China by the American Board of 
Missions at the expense of the Hon. W™ Appleton. Shanghai, July, 1852." 



132 William Appleton [1848 

had her infant daughter Christened — named Elizabeth 
Clark. 

SEPTEMBER 28'^'. After Attending to my usual busi- 
ness I left for home, intending to visit my son at Som- 

erville. In passing rapidly through in my buggy 

or Carryall, over a mound of earth where the street had 
been opened, the bolt that connected the front wheels of 
the Carriage with the after gave way; I was thrown over 
the dashboard into the street, and received a blow on my 
back which for a time appeared to have sent the breath 
from my body; I soon so far recovered as to get into a 
Carriage and was carried to our residence in Brookline, 
where I suffered much; but with kind and skilful atten- 
tion most of the time twice a day from Dr. Warren for four 
weeks I so far recovered as to ride to Boston and was soon 
able to attend to my usual occupation. 

OCTOBER 14'^. Hon. Jeremiah Mason died, much 
Respected for his superior talents. I felt his death 
much; we have been intimate, considering the difference 
of age and standing; he often spoke of me in terms com- 
plimentary, and showed confidence. 2^'^'. The Water from 
Cochituate Lake formally entered the City; the ceremony 
was brilliant; the day was fine and all very successful. 28'''''. 
Hon. Harrison Gray Otis died this morning; a man of ex- 
traordinary talents; his manner superior to almost any of the 
present age; I have known him well for thirty-five years. 
He was more useful in bringing me into society than any 




cy^'orri. ^i r.Ji^rrC'm^ I JiM^^ r? Z^-a O-u tLyTe-a^tj. - 



1849] Diary 133 

other Gent"; this was from attentions I paid his Mother 
& Sisters when his Father died at Washington. His funeral 
was quite private. 31^^ Whig Torchhght Procession, very 
BrilHant from five thousand torches. I doubt if these ex- 
hibitions have much effect. 

NOVEMBER y^K We are all very much interested 
in the result of the Election of the Pres^ of the 
U. States which takes place this day. Taylor will probably 
be elected, ^o^^. Mr Healy passed most of the day with 
me, painting my Portrait.^ 

DECEMBER 8'^'. Went to Waltham; I am troubled 
for Mrs. Greene's health. 31^'. Among the pleasantest 
affairs of my life has been taking charge of Mr. F.C. Gray's 
business, and saving him from bankruptcy. 



1849 

JANUARY 8'^. Went with Mrs. F. H. & Mrs. Amory 
Appleton to see them race on the Neck. \b^^K Meet- 
ing Provident Institution, the first time in which I pre- 
sided. 

FEBRUARY VK Warren Club met at our House; 
very pleasant, some fifty Gent". No wine, io^'k I had 
to dine WiUiam Gray, Samuel Hooper, Henry P. Sturgis, 

' For Mr. F. C. Gray; later it was given to Susan M. Loring; it is now owned 
by Rev. William Appleton Lawrence. 



136 William Appleton [1849 

SEPTEMBER 8'^^. Returned from Newport where we 
remained almost four Weeks. Hetty very much im- 
proved, we trust, is in a fair way to get her health. 17'^'. 
Went to Plymouth with a large party to dine; there were 
nearly One Hundred present. Mr. Webster, Mr. Everett, 
Mr. Winthrop & several others made speeches much to 
the delight of the audience. Dr. Mercer of New Orleans 
went with me, Commodore Morris was my guest. A pleas- 
ant day; we returned to Brookline at 1 1 o'clock. 21^'. Mr. 
& Mrs. Abbott Lawrence called to make us a P. P. C. 
Visit. 26"^. Mr. Lawrence sailed in the Steamer for Eng- 
land. 

OCTOBER 8'^^. The Storm of yesterday caused the 
loss of more than One Hundred lives, by a Brig from 
Ireland going on shore near Scituate. W^'. We this day 
proved Mr. Benj. Wiggin's Will. Strange, when we see 
the folly in others in laying up money they know not for 
whom, we do not take knowledge. 

NOVEMBER lOtK Party at Mrs. Nathan Appleton's; 
quite large and elegant and Fashionable. 15'^. Dined 
at Mr. Francis Lowell's, party of Ladies & Gentlemen; 
very stylish & pleasant. 17'^'. We gave a dinner party to 
Mr. & Mrs. Winthrop, consisting of the bride and bride- 
groom, Mr. & Mrs. Webster, Mr. & Mrs. N. Appleton, 
Mr. & Mrs. Paige, Mr. &. Mrs. James S. Amory, Mr. 
& Mrs. Sears, Miss Appleton, Mr. Grinnell, Mr. Gray & 



1849] Diary 137 

Mr. Prescott; twenty, including Mrs. Appleton & my- 
self — as many as our table will accommodate. Sat down to 
dinner at ^/^ past five o'clock: all passed off very satisfac- 
torily. 26/^'. Went with a large party to Cochituate Lake ; 
a most lovely day; a jfine day it would be in April ; Honble 
Mr. Twistleton, introduced by Messrs. Baring Brothers & 
Co., went with us. 28'^'. Attended Court with Mr. Twistle- 
ton; Mr. Choate spoke, also Benjamin R. Curtis. 30''''. I 
went to the Court and heard Mr. Loring in the case of the 
Iron Company; I fear my friend Gray will lose the case. 

DECEMBER 1^'. Very great excitement on account 
of the arrest of Dr. Webster.^ 6'^. Consecration of 
Church at Waltham; a large pleasant party at dinner at 
Mr. Greene's; Bish. Potter was with us. 20'^'. Warren Club 
at my House. Dr. Gould & Mr. Agassiz lectured. 31^^ 
This ends another year. In the way of business I have less 
than in any year since I returned from Europe, more than 
thirty years since. I have not suffered for the want of occu- 
pation, yet I am quite satisfied I should make a Mistake 
to have less. My income has been fully equal to the In- 
terest at six per cent on my Capital. I disburse freely, yet 
my property increases. There has been no distress with the 
men of business; Commerce has been generally profitable. 
Rail Roads that have been commenced within the last three 
years are bad generally. I think there is owned in Massa- 
chusetts more than Sixty Millions of dollars cost in Rail 

' He was convicted of the murder of Dr. George Parkman at the Harvard 
Medical School, and he was hanged. 



140 William Appleton [1850 

wich Island Chiefs — fine fellows. 30''^. Went with Mrs. 
Appleton and Children to see "The Ravenels." 

JUNE 6'^. Went to Waltham with Mrs. Greene who has 
been confined by severe illness nearly three months; 
now very weak. ']^^K I find myself much better since I gave 
up Coffee and Wine. 14^'^. Went to Charlestown to see the 
preparations for the 17th. xy^. Interesting Discourse from 
Mr. Everett on the 75th Anniversary Battle Bunker Hill. 
22«< Young ladies went to Mrs. Brooks' to tea at Med- 
ford. i^^'k Mrs. Lawrence's Child Christened William. 
lyh. Mrs. Lawrence with her four children passed the day 
with us; her youngest 4 Weeks. 1%^^K Mrs. F. H. Appleton 
left us with her son, a fine boy ; they have been some days 
with us. 

JULY \oth^ Left for Newport; W^. Find time hangs 
rather heavy. 

SEPTEMBER 4'^. Bathed, was weighed; found I had 
gained two pounds since last weighed; present weight 
is One hundred and two pounds, I think it is the great- 
est for twenty years. \^^^. Took Sir John & Lady Camp- 
bell to Brookline; pleasant people. 27^^. Went to Hear 
Jenny Lind and was much pleased ; for the Tickets I paid 
$llA2j4. 28''^'. Engaged in getting subscription for Mrs. 
Dr. Webster; got four thousand dollars in a small part of 
the day. 30'^^. Left with Dr. Vinton for Cincinnati for the 
Triennial Convention; slept at Albany. 



1850] Diary 141 

OCTOBER F^ Arrivd Buffalo, & embarked in Steamer 
for Sandusky City; severe storm on the Lake, or^' 
Arrivd at Cincinnati, passed most of the day at the Con- 
vention; nothing very interesting. 4^-^. Went to Conven- 
tion. 5/^'. Attended the Cattle Show, Horticultural Exhi- 
bition, and Mechanick's Institution. ']th. Went with Mr. 
Longworth to the Garden of Endor, a large Vineyard. 
10'^'. Left with Judge Boardman for Louisville; arrivd late 
at night, stopping at several Cities in Indiana, il^^-'. Left 
Louisville in Stage for Frankfort; very fine Country we 
passed through ; then took the Rail Road for Lexington. 
12^'^. Slept at Mr. Clay's the last night, went to the City, 
made some calls, returned, some Gent" at dinner. Very 
much pleased; Country Beautiful. 13''''. At church; at 
evening took a Carriage & rode some twenty-five miles 
through a beautiful Country on our way to Cincinnati. 
14'^. Took Stage at seven o'clock, pleased with our ride to 
Cincinnati. 15'^'. Dined with Mr. Longworth,quiteaparty; 
Large House, plain dinner, a large party, mostly Bishops 
& Clergy. \t'^. At Convention; at a very large party at 

Capt. & at Judge Pendleton's. Left at evening; slept 

at Xenia. i']^^. Arrived with many of our friends at San- 
dusky. iS''''. Left for and arrived at Detroit, a very fine 
City & will increase. \<^tf'. Left for Buffalo in Steamer. 2 H^ 
Went to Niagara & then to Batavia; fine day, pleasant 
party. 22«< Took steamer on Seneca Lake and Rail Road 
at Jefferson, on the Erie R.R., arriv^ at New York at 9 
o'clock; a most Interesting day, the scenery sublime & 



144 William Appleton [1850 

might have grace to go to the Table of our Lord free from 
earthly thoughts; I prayed for such assistance. Thank God, 
the day has passed most pleasantly; I attended all the ser- 
vices of the Church with more than usual satisfaction; par- 
ticularly the Communion. I have never had to my mind the 
system of Salvation through the Blood of Christ more fully 
to my conception; the darkness that at times hovers about, 
disappeared. Oh, that I may have grace given me that I 
may be enabled to put worldly cares and pleasures behind 
me, looking forward only to the inestimable prize; not 
only looking forward, but enjoying the present! What is 
to be compared with the Peace that God giveth! I attrib- 
ute much of my anxiety the last few years to my busi- 
ness which has been profitable beyond the natural income, 
which, being hazardous, led me to feel a desire to lay it 
aside for a change. May I have less hazard & no misgiv- 
ings of duty. 9'^. Went to visit Col. Perkins, who gave me 
a Gold snuff Box, I fancy he thinks his days are few. 1 2'^. 
Harriet had a dinner party of twenty-four of her young 
friends; very pleasant. Rather troubled as to W^'^ health. 
iS''^. Went to Salem, dined with Mr. Silsbee; I think they 
are very desirous of keeping the Property of Mrs. A. 
under their controul. I shall do all I can legally to meet 
their wishes. Xmas. The morning beautiful; Mrs. Apple- 
ton troubled with ague in her face. Went to church; at the 
Communion, not satisfied with myself; this was from get- 
ting my mind fixed on a letter I had rec^ and answered in 
the morning, & not finding my Son at church. I feared he 
was getting wrong feelings on Religious Subjects, and in 



1851 J Diary 145 

my tears for him I was lost to all good impressions. We had 
with us at dinner most of our family. Mr. Jefferson Coolidge, 
who has lately become engaged to Hetty, was of our party. 
I think well of him, but did not approve of the engagement 
on account of their age; both being less than twenty years 
old. 31^^ Went with Mrs. Appleton & Hetty to an As- 
sembly; did not enter into the feelings of the party, played 
Whist most of the evening, returned late not well Sat- 
isfied. The past year has been one of general prosperity 
in this Country and Europe. In New England they have 
been much crippled by bad & over investments in Rail 
Road stocks. Manufacturing Stocks have paid less divi- 
dends than for many years. The difficulty is over pro- 
duction. 

1851 

JANUARY 2"< Harriet left us for a visit to Mr. Dex- 
ter's at Beverly. 27^^^. The "Cygnet" arrived, one hun- 
dred and five days from Canton. 28'^'. Left for Washing- 
ton, Willard's Hotel, with W^, Harriet and Abby, as 
Harriet's attendant. 31^'. At the Press's in Evening, and at 
Mr. Webster's where we met Many. 

FEBRUARY Vf. At Sir H. Bulwer's to dine & at 
Spanish Minister Calderon's in Evening. 2«< At 
Church, a good but trying sermon to us Worldlings. On 
Friday following Wm & Harriet left me for Boston; on 
Wednesday I followed them. Arrived in Boston, Satur- 
day, 15th. ij^^. Went to Waltham and found my dear Dia- 



148 William Appleton [1851 

Mrs. Franklin Dexter & Gordon for New York. ly^'^. The 
Rail Road Jubilee commenced. Pres^ Fillmore arrived 
in the City. 18^^. Grand Dinner for the Pres^ at the Re- 
vere House — I remained short time — & excursion for the 
Strangers in Harbour. 19'^^. Grand Show of Mechanicks, 
& procession, the largest I ever saw in Boston. 20'^'. Din- 
ner party for twenty-one went off very well, Mr. Webster 
very dull. 

OCTOBER 2< Mr. Sterling, a young Englishman 
introduced by Mr. Fisher, dined with us. 9'^. Bishop 
Potter arrived & Breakfasted with us, dined and left at 
three o'clock. Our third daughter was married at St. 
Paul's Church ; a very large number of our friends were 
present; the Church was quite full. The connection is very 
agreeable to us and Mr. Dexter's family; they appear to 
have a fair share of happiness. At 9 o'clock Mrs. Apple- 
ton received the company; the House was crowded until 
nearly eleven o'clock; very pleasant apparently; supper 
was prepared for the guests, & musick. The Bridegroom 
& Bride left for our House in Brookline at ^ past eleven 
o'clock; delightful day & Evening! 1 1'^. Rode to see Mrs. 
Lawrence & the bride at Brookline, with Hetty. 22«< 
Passed the Morning at Meeting of several persons con- 
nected with Rail Roads to N. York. 23''< Left with Mr. 
N. Appleton, Sears, Wm. Amory, J. Tilden, J. S. Amory, 
Mr. Whitney, Mr. L Sargent, & H. Cabot for Vermont, 
slept at Northfield. Entertained by Governor Paine; very 
good dinner, etc. 24^^. Went to Rouse's Point, dined & 



1851] Diary 149 

returned to Burlington; supper given our party by Mr. 
Peck. 2^'^. Returned to Boston vi'a Rutland and Keene ; 
very satisfactory journey. 2&^. Judge Warren brought to 
see us Mr. Davis, member of Congress, I think him vain 
& flighty. 3H''. A beautiful day; Went down the Harbour ; 
visited the Islands & forts at the request of City Govern- 
ment — some Thirty in Party. 

NOVEMBER &K Attended Wedding of Mr. Wm 
Prescott & Miss Peabody; large Party, very pleas- 
ant. iS^''^ Engaged in getting ready to go to Washington; 
sent off Horses, etc. 24'^'. Left for Washington with Mrs. 
A., Hetty, Mr. J. S. Amory & Abby; arrd N. Y. at 5 P.M.; 
found Irving House most pleasant. 26*^'. Left New York 
for Phil% saw two Sleighs making their way with a mod- 
erate quantity of Snow. 29'-^. At Washington we found 
our rooms in good order & comfortable. 

DECEMBER 1^^ Made my first appearance in the 
Hall as a Representative from Suffolk. I feel doubt- 
ful of the Result. 2"< Engaged at the House; made some 
calls & reed some visits. Mr. J. S. Amory left us; a good 
fellow he is. y^. Gov. Davis, M^. Stanley & Duncan at 
dinner. House adjourned until Saturday. 4^^. Made calls 
with Ladies, & on the President & several Gentlemen. 
g'^. Attended House, very little to interest except the 
Announcement of Committees, I am on that of Ways & 
Means; the most important — a compliment to my con- 
stituents & self ly^. Cold blustering day; made calls. 



152 William Appleton [1852 

& Hetty, y^. At dinner given Kossuth; about two hundred 
& fifty present, lo''^. Made calls with Mrs. A. and dined 
with Mr. Webster, party of fourteen. 19^^^. Very cold. Dan- 
cing party at Miss Taylor's; Hetty & I went for a short 
time. We really suffer from cold at House & Committee. 
No mails from North or South. ivK Party at dinner of 
eighteen; very pleasant. Mr. Webster with us. 22«< Cold 
weather continues ; mails through, bringing a large num- 
ber of letters. 23*"^. Pleasant Dance at French Minister's. 
Davis^ made his first speech. 24/^''. Mr. Corcoran's at even- 
ing, & large Party of Gent™" at Supper. Mr. & Mrs. 
McCurdy at dinner. 26'^'. At the Secretary of War's in 
evening. 28'^^. At Calderons' at evening, very pleasant. 
30'^'. Went to the President's with Mr. Silsbee, Mr. & Mrs. 
Whiting, Mr. & Mrs. Thaxter. o^vK Party of twelve to 
dine; Mr. Silsbee & his son, Mr. & Miss Fillmore, Mr. 
& Mrs. Seaton, Mr. Ingersoll & J. Davis. 

FEBRUARY \^h^ At Comdore Morris' for supper & 
at Calderons' with Mrs. A. & Hetty. 5'^. On return- 
ing from House & Committee found Telegraph with the 
pleasing intelligence that Mrs. A. A. Lawrence has an- 
other Daughter. 7'^^ Dinner, twenty-two; very pleasant; I 
think some good will be produced by bringing together 
persons from distant Parts. 10'^'. Dined with the Russian 
Minister — -Party thirty-four. ii'^'. We had ten to dine; 
Mr. & Mrs. Bartlett, Judge McLean, Webster, etc. 14'^. 
Some twenty at dinner, after attendance at Committee from 

'Afterwards President of the Confederate States. 



1852] Diary 153 

10 to 4 P.M. 16^''^ Committee & House. Mrs. Coolidge, 
daughter & Jefferson arr^*. 18'^. Dined with Mr. Webster, 
Ladies with us. 19'^. Party of Ladies and Gent"i": Mr. & 
Mrs. Curtis, Peabody, Coolidge, etc. 21^'. Splendid Ban- 
quet in Memory of the birthday of Washington, about 
1 50 at table ; I was an active Manager. 22"^''. Worshipped at 
Capitol & at Mr. Pyne's. 23'"'^. At House and Committee. 
Ball at Mr. Corcoran's, said to be eleven Hundred there; 
very splendid. 24''''. Dinner for twenty, went off well. 28'-^. 
Dined at Mr. Corcoran's, Party of twenty-four; very ele- 
gant: Russian Minister. Ladies, Mrs. Badger, Mrs. Stew- 
art, Mrs. Appleton, Mrs. Peabody, Mrs. Coolidge. 

MARCH ^fK Dined with Gen. Crittenden, & was at 
the President's, b'^. Mr. Davis made reply to Mr. 
Rantoul (not much do I think he gained). 13'^'. A large 
party of twenty-four at dinner — the English, French, 
Spanish & Russian Ministers and the Ladies of such as 
have Wives; some of the Secretaries & their Ladies, etc.; 
went off very well. 19'^'. We had some twenty to dine. 
Brooks made a good speech on Deficiency Bill. 26'^. Dined 
at Mr. King's, President of Senate; Mrs. Appleton, Hetty 
& several other Ladies; rather more splendid than usual in 
Washington. 27'^'. At House; Passed the Deficiency Bill. 
31^^ Very unpleasant day; I am less pleased than with any 
day since in this City; had an indiscreet and indelicate 
speech from O. Fowler. 



156 William Appleton [1852 

Washington. 24'^. Dinner for sixteen; very well got up, 
quite satisfactory. 28'^. At House: River & Harbour bill 
discussed. 29^-^. Samuel Lawrence, Mr. Morehead & Mr. 
Breckenridge at dinner. Did not return from House until 
near 8 o'clock, & went to Committee at 9 O'C. opth. 
House finished the River & Harbour bill. 

A UGUST 2«< Mr. Kennedy came to live with me. 
l\. ord. The last three days quite cool, winter garments 
pleasant. 8'^. At Mr. Butler's Church; most of the day 
taken up in arranging to send home the remains of Mr. 
Rantoul. 9'-^'. At House. Very handsome address on the 
announcement of the death of Mr. Rantoul by Mr. Mann 
& Sumner. 18'^^. Not quite well — stomach out of order. 
\(^th. Mrs. Kennedy came to stop with us. 20''''. At House 
late; rather warm & tiresome; want of order in the House. 
Charles has returned improved. 2"]*^. At House & Com- 
mittee. I had a dinner party for Mr. Ingersoll, Prince, Mr. 
Webster, Crittenden, Conrad, Hall, Gen. Scott, Dr. Pyne, 
Mr. McClellan, Faulkner, Mr. Perly of Nova Scotia, Mr. 
Markoe & Kennedy. 29^^', Sunday. At Committee from 
nine to six on conference with Committee of Senate; quite 
ill the last night from Indigestion. 30'^'. At House & Com- 
mittee until nine o'clock when we adjourned till 9, Tues- 
day. 3P^ At nine went to the House, adjourned at twelve. 

SEPTEMBER i^^ Quite unwell last night but with 
much exertion arrived in New York. 3''< Arrived in 
Boston & went to Brookline, found all well. 9'-^. Mrs. 



1852] Diary 157 

Greene taken to our House in Brookline. ly''^. Dined 
with Mr. Thayer, a very large & elegant party. 20'"'''. Drs. 
Warren, Jackson, & Adams met at my house to see Mrs. 
Greene. 2V^. Went to the City; engaged in arranging for 
a dinner for Mr. Tho^ Baring, M.P. 22«'^. Nominated for 
another term in Congress. I accept, feeling I may decline 
a year hence, but shall go if all goes well. Pleasant dinner 
at Revere House, about one hundred and fifty present. 
26''^. Attended the funeral of James S. Amory's child, the 
third they have parted with within eighteen days. 

OCTOBER 2«< Removed to Boston. 4/^. Our Daugh- 
ter, Mrs. Dexter, presented us with a son; she suffered 
much. ^i^. Mrs. Dexter better than we feared she might be. 
1 V^i. Attended prayers at Chapel at 9 A.M.; very doubt- 
ful in my mind if it would not be better for persons to Pray 
at home. 20^^'. Sale City Wharf for $411-, full value, as 
I think. I was willing to pay ^400,000. 22«< We hear 
Mr. Webster is very ill. 23''< The accounts from Mr. 
Webster show that his Hours on earth will be few. 24'^^. 
We were awakened by the firing of Minute guns, announ- 
cing the death of Daniel Webster — The great man of his 
time. 25/^. Meetings of all classes to show their sympa- 
thy on account of the death of Mr. Webster. 27^^'. Went 
to Faneuil Hall to attend meeting on account of the death 
of Mr. Webster. 28^^'. At U. S. Court Room; Addresses 
from Mr. Choate & Loring. 29'^'. Went to Marshfield, 
funeral of Mr. Webster; beautiful day; very numerous 
collection of people. 



i6o William Appleton [1852 

purity of her life. We have the consolation of knowing all 
was done to restore her that was deemed expedient. God 
did not so order. 

1853 

JANUARY 1^^ We are informed of the death of our 
good friend Mr. Amos Lawrence. The past year has 
been one of much interest and great variety: two Grand 
Children Born, one daughter Married and our dear Mary 
Anne we followed to her tomb. Charles returned to us from 
Europe with more health than we expected, yet we are 
not without anxiety on his account. Dear Frank, remains 
the same; Dr. Bell says he shall not give up hope until he 
knows the cause of his malady. Mrs. Appleton, Amory's 
wife, with her son, is passing the winter in Savannah on 
account of his delicacy of health; I trust the dear fellow 
may be spared us, he is all in all to the Mother. 2«< At 
Communion with my dear Wife. 6^^. Mr. Coolidge and 
Hetty arrived. Charles quite laid up. 8'^^ The Jackson 
statue inaugurated. Mr. Gray & Mr. Hall from London 
at dinner. 1 1^'^. A more perfect day cannot be imagined. 
24''''. Dear Hetty & Mr. Coolidge left us; their visit has 
been very delightful. ly^K Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence & their 
two daughters came to make us a visit. 29'^^ Mr. & Mrs. 
Abbott Lawrence arrived. 

FEBRUARY VK Rode & talked much with Mr. L. 
3''< Mr. & Mrs. Abbott Lawrence with us in the 
evening. 4''''. Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence in the evening. 6'^'. Mr. 



1853] Diary 161 

& Mrs. Abbott Lawrence at Evening. 8-^^ Dined with Mr. 
Corcoran; party for Pres^ Fillmore & family; Cabinet 
Ministers and their Ladies; very splendid & pleasant, 
ii''''. Dined at Mr. Stockton's, pleasant party of twenty- 
two. 18''''. Party of Gent" to dine. 19'^. Went to Committee 
at nine; in House until seven. Snowing all day. 24'-^. Went 
to introduce Gen^ Pierce to Pres^ Fillmore; was asked to 
go with them to see the "Ericson" Steamer, but declined. 
26'^. W^ent to hear Mr. Thackeray. 28'^^ At Committee 
from 9 to 1 1, House from 1 1 to 7 P.M.; hard work. 

MARCH 1^^ We had a session from 1 1 O'clock until 
ten at night. 3^"'/. Went to the House at ten, con- 
tinued in session until the next day at 12 O'C, — much 
engaged on Committees, etc. 4'-''. At 12 O'C, House 
adjourned, went to the Senate Chamber, attended the in- 
auguration of Prest Pierce; returned home very much 
fatigued. Snow storm. ^^^'. Made calls, preparing for our 
return to those we most love. 6'^K Many persons called to 
take leave of us. 7'^. Left Washington at 7 A.M., slept 
at the Girard House, Phila. 8'^'. Arrived at St. Nicholas 
House, New York, splendid establishment. 1 1'^-^. Very glad 
to be with our family & friends. 20'^'. At St. Paul's; 
much gratified by Harriet's renewing her baptismal vows. 
27''''. Communion Sunday & Easter; our dear Harriet went 
with us for the first time to Communion. I daily thank God 
that our children have so many Virtues. 28'^'. Harriet's dear 
infant is very ill. 31^^ Our dear Harriet's infant died the 
last evening at 1 1 o'clock ; a lovely child. 



164 William Appleton [1853 

mutual confidence; I have not known the man more studi- 
ously intent on doing right. Naturally, with strong feelings, 
& at a time in his life irritable & overbearing, which he 
overcame to such a degree that those who knew him late 
in life would be led to suppose he was void of those pas- 
sions we would wish to correct. In early life he was of very 
great benefit to me in credit, loaning me his stocks, etc.; he 
was more than a brother to me, I feel his departure much. 
i^^^. In the City at Convention as usual, & attending to 
preparing for Mr. Appleton's funeral. 15'^. Funeral of our 
friend was from the Stone Chapel; full church; from there 
we went & deposited the body at Mount Auburn ; very 
affecting to think we shall see him no more. 16^-^. Went 
to the late residence of Mr. S. Appleton. Will read; an ap- 
pearance of satisfaction. Mr. N. Appleton, Bowditch & 
myself are Ex^s. 19''^. At Store & Convention. We left for 
Saratoga, where we remained until 2nd Aug^ when we left 
for Lake George; on the 5th arrived home; all well. 

AUGUST 9'^. Meeting of the Hadley Falls Com- 
. pany; a bad Concern. iS'-^. Mrs. Appleton returned 
with me from Lynn to Brookline where we find ourselves 
alone; three of our Children are in Europe, one in Bos- 
ton, one in Lynn. 25''^. William, wife & child came to us 
at Brookline; we were rejoiced to have them with us after 
an absence of some four months. 

SEPTEMBER j^K At about five o'clock P.M. dear 
Hetty was mother of a daughter which we were soon 



1853] E)iary 165 

apprised of, & which gave us great pleasure. 17^^. En- 
gaged with Mr. Wiggin's estate. 2H^ Arranging for the 
building of a new ship, I did not expect such an event.^ 
26'^'. Much engaged with Mr. Wiggin, I trust I shall find 
an end to this business. 28'^'. Attended Convention at Fitch- 
burg to nominate a candidate for Governor. 

OCTOBER 5'^'. Attended Convention at Trinity 
Church, New York ; it was very solemn & impres- 
sive. 6'^^. Left for Washington at evening, y'-^. Called on 
Mrs. Gadsby & President. 8'^. Arranged my household 
business. 10''^. Returned to New York, at St. Nicholas. 
1 1 '^. Attended Convention, dined at Bishop Wainwright's. 
15'^'. Returned to Boston. 

NOVEMBER4'^'. Went to Mount Vernon. 1 1'^.Whig 
Caucus; I was Vice-Pres^, 12''^. Our dear Children 
came to us late this evening; Harriet much improved in 
health & spirits. 13''''. At church, very pleasant to have 
Mr. & Mrs. Dexter with us. i^^^'. Engaged at the office 
and at election; much pleased by the success of the Whigs. 
15'^. Meeting Directors Providence R. R. Much rejoicing 
on a/c of yesterday's election, ig^^. This day I left to go 
to Washington. For the second time I have been elected 

' Vessels owned in whole or in part by Mr. Appleton: Triumphant, Telegraph, 
Courier, Miner-z>a, Roxanna, Sally Ann, The Brothers, Triton, Champion, Rasse- 
las, Harriet, Mercury, Jasper, Eben Preble, Delhi, Charlotte, Mary Ellen, Loo 
Choo, Probus, Barnstable, Coronado, Horatio, Cygnet, Edith-Rose, Nabob, Orion, 
Milton, Admittance, Oxtiard, Hamlet, Tasso, Joshua Bates, Horsburgh, Courser, 
Lining Age, Egeria, Magenta. 



i66 William Appleton [1853 

to the Congress of the United States; I am at all times, 
when I reflect, surprised to find myself in the position the 
public give me. I feel much the want of an early educa- 
tion and the neglect to improve the opportunities I have 
had. 

DECEMBER 5/^. Opening of Congress; elected 
Speaker & other Officers without much opposition. 
()t^K We had the President's Message; well rec^; non-com- 
mittal. He made us a visit last evening; very kind & gen- 
tlemanly. iC^'. Went to the President's with Mr. Edmunds, 
Curtis & Mr. Dickinson; at the office of the Secretary of 
the Interior in relation to the Court House for the U. S. 
in Boston. 12*^. At House, committees announced; I am 
pleased at being on the Committee of Ways & Means, 

yet it gives much labour. 25^^, Christmas. Mr. with 

us; he much troubled on account of his son's misconduct 
at West Point. 26^^. The day kept as a festival; offices all 
closed. 2']'^K At House the death of Mr. Campbell of Ten- 
nessee was announced. A smart discourse by our Chaplain 
on the duty of rulers was given on occasion of the funeral 
which took place on the 28th at the House. In the evening 
we passed an hour at the President's with Mrs. Pierce and 
Mrs. Means. (Splendid Misery !) 29''^. At Committee room; 
no quorum; passed most of the day seeing what could be 

done for Mr. . 30'^^. Went again to the President's; 

he sent for the Secretary of War, who came in & had a 
long talk with the President ; he left, I was called in. The 
President said he did not like to interfere but would recom- 



1854] Diary 167 

mend the young man not to resign but be tried by Court 

Martial; so I decided & wrote to Geni D, and Mr. 

& sent a telegraphic dispatch. 31^^ Some sleighs are out 
this morning. 

1854 

JANUARY 1^^ Sunday. In looking from the windows 
of our Chamber I see the trees most gracefully covered 
with snow attached to the limbs in the most delicate man- 
ner; the quantity fallen is some four inches, which is quite 
large for this region. I went to the Communion table with 
more than usual satisfaction; I feel within a few days more 
warmth of heart, perhaps produced by the season we com- 
memorate of the unspeakable goodness of God. 2«< House 
not in session. Made many calls & Mrs. Appleton had some 
fifty to one hundred visitors; being the custom the first of 
the year for the gent'"" to call on ladies. 5''''. Miss Seaton 
at dinner, a very interesting woman. Mr. Walley made his 
appearance, I presented his credentials, y'"''-'. I went with 
Mr. Walley to call on the President, Secretary of the 
Treas, Attorney Gen' & made many calls with Mrs. Apple- 
ton. 9'^. No session of either House, anniversary Battle of 

New Orleans. 12^-^. At House and looking after Mr. 's 

concerns; bad business. 14/'''. No House; dinner for sixteen. 
ly-^. At the meeting of Colonization Society I determined 
to pay twenty-four hundred dollars for half expense of 
sending eighty negroes to Africa. 2q'^^. Dined at the Secy 
of the Treasury's, with a large Party of ladies and Gent'"". 
2V^. Party of sixteen at dinner, very pleasant. 25'^'. House 



i68 William Appleton [1854 

adjourned to attend Mr. Bodisco's* funeral; large As- 
semblage of persons Present. 28"^. Dined at Mr. Everett's, 
large and pleasant party Ladies and Gentlemen. 

FEBRUARY 3'-< Went with Mrs. Appleton to the 
President's. 9'^. At House, the Deficiency Bill rejected. 
16'^. Dined at Mr. Sartiges', French Minister. 20'^'. Most 
severe snow storm I have ever seen in Washington. 2H^ 
With much difficulty can we get from one part of the City 
to another; more than one foot of snow fallen. 22«< House 
did not sit, Wash^^'s B. Day; dined with Commodore Shu- 
brick. 28'^. Mr. & Mrs. Dexter arrived; we were right glad 
to see them. 

MARCH 2«< Dinner at President's, about thirty; Mr. 
& Mrs. Dexter of the party. 14'^. Rev^. Mr. Dex- 
ter called with a Petition signed by three thousand fifty 
Clergymen of New England, remonstrating against Ne- 
braska Bill & repeal of the Missouri Compromise, which 
I have offered in the House. 16'^. The days pass with very 
little change. I go to the House & to Prayers daily at 
Mr. Pyne's church. 21^'. We had the Nebraska Bill in the 
House; I think it will not become a Law. ly^. At House; 
there was a sharp debate between Messrs. Cutting &Breck- 
enridge. 28''''. Dined at Mr. Riggs' with pleasant party of 
Ladies & gentlemen, among them were Mr. & Mrs. Cut- 
ting. 29'^^. At House much said of a duel between Mr. 
Cutting & Mr.Breckenridge. Dined with Comm.Shubrick, 

^ Alexander de Bodisco, Minister from Russia. 



1854] Diary 169 

Mr. & Mrs. Cutting were expected. Mrs. Lawrence & 
Amory arr^. 30^''^ All uncertain as to the duel ; friends said to 
be in consultation. 31^'. At House Mr. Preston announced 
the settlement of the difficulty between Mr. B. & Mr. C. 

APR I L 4'^'. I n Committee of the whole ; Bill, Nebraskan, 
IX the subject discussed; not well pleased, our Commit- 
tee has very narrow vein. 1 1'^'. At House, Nebraska is the 
great object; I doubt the result, yet I think it will not pass. 
12'^^. Dined at Mr. Corcoran's, Party of Gent", Committee 
District of Columbia. 13^^. Mr. Lawrence arrived; he & 
Sarah dined at the President's. 

MAY 4^-^. At two o'clock was Telegraphed of Frank's 
illness; left with Mrs. Appleton at 5; slept at Phil^. 
6^^. Went from the cars directly to Somerville to see our 
dear Son. We found him very weak and unable to converse 
much, but pleased to see us. On the following days he 
revived, and had much apparent pleasure in the visits of 
his Mother, Sisters & Wife; generally his mind was clear 
but at times wandering, perhaps not more than others from 
weakness; he continued in this state, some days more com- 
fortable than at others, until Sunday, 28th, when in the 
morning I went to him (having slept at Dr. BelPs generally 
since my return from Washington), asked him how he was; 
he replied that he had not had as comfortable a night as 
usual; asked me to sit by him, inquired for his Mother, 
asked if I was going to Washington again; he said, "Stay 
by us, you have always taken care of us. Take care of 



lyo William Appleton [1854 

mother, my sisters & Wife." He said, "It is Sunday, you 
will go to Church & Pray for us." Returned to Boston, 
went to Church & was soon called out, being informed 
that my son was much changed. Went immediately with 
Mrs. Appleton & Mrs. F. H. Appleton to Somerville. We 
found Frank unable to speak, not suffering; in which state 
he continued until about three O'C, when he expired 
without a Struggle. W^ was with us during the last hours 
of his brother. We have great cause of gratitude that he 
was able to converse with us and that his mind was so re- 
stored that we could enjoy his society. On Wednesday his 
funeral took place at St. Paul's Church & we committed 
his body to the tomb at Mount Auburn beside his Grand- 
mother, his brother & others. We remained & attended 
Church with our family on the 4th June; and the follow- 
ing day left for Washington. 

JUNE 12'^. Rather disturbed at the course taken as to 
the Tariff. 13^^^ Quite cool; have on my entire winter 
clothing. 16'^. Attending to report on the Tariff, with Ed- 
munds & Robbins. 1 y^. Went to see the Secy of Treas- 
ury, I think we shall find a grand opposition to Houston's 
Tariff. iS''^. Went to the Chamber of House Reps; heard 
one of the most eloquent discourses I ever heard from Dr. 
Lippcombe of Montgomery, Alabama. 26'^'. At House; 
took up the bill appropriating ten millions for Mexican 
Treaty. 27'^^. Discussing Treaty; I do not like political 
opposition when it would prevent doing what is essential 
for the Public good. 28'^. The ten million dollars granted; 



1854] Diary 171 

I accidentally was out of the House, but should have voted 
for it; our delegation voted against it. 30'^^ Most of the day 
was taken up as to when we shall adjourn. 

JULY i^f. House & Senate agreed to adjourn 4th of 
August. Went with President, Mrs. Pierce & Mrs. Ap- 
pleton, at the invitation of Lieut. Maury, to the observa- 
tory in the evening. j^^K On the Civil & Diplomatic Bill. 
8^-^. At House as usual; very little doing. Hot weather is 
the talk. iV^'. Left for Boston with Mrs. Appleton. i8'^^ 
Arrived back in Washington. 2^^^K Some gent" to dine, — 
Reprs from South Carolina & Mass. 26'^. At House; rather 
tired, almost ill. 28'^'. At House; made an explanation of T. 
Sumner's copyright; very well received, carried the object. 

AUGUST i^''. Suffered much with ague in my face, 
^ but was at House. 2«< From 9 A.M. until 10 P.M. 
at House; much exhausted when I got home. 3'"'''. Passed 
day & night at the House; went to Mr. Corcoran's for 
dinner. 4'^'. At six O'clock House adjourned until nine 
O'clock; at 1 1 O'C. agreed to extend the session to allow 
time for enrolling bills, etc.; dined at Willard's. ^'^- Left 
Washington and arrived at St. Nicholas, New York. j^^. 
Arrived in Brookline; right glad to be at home. 10^^'. Look- 
ing into Eastern R.R. Concerns. 1 1^^'. Engaged at store with 
letters from China. 14''^'. Geni Taylor of Ohio was at din- 
ner. 16'^'. State Convention; attended in the morning. 18'^. 
Went to Beverly to consult with Mr. Franklin Dexter as 
tomy will; visited Georgiana & Mr. & Mrs. Silsbee; dined 



172 William Appleton [1854 

with Mrs. Lawrence in Lynn; went to Nahant & found 
many People. 

SEPTEMBER ord. At Dr. Stone's Church; Mr. J. S. C. 
Greene read the service very much to our Satisfaction; 
I was truly delighted & said to my Wife, "If departed 
Spirits look down on us, if any pleasure could be added to 
our dear departed Mary Anne, it would be in seeing that 
her Copley was doing a work that would benefit others." 
12'^'. Dinner with large party at Revere House, dinner to 
Mr. Morgan, going to London. 



o 



CTOBER 26'^. Nominated for Congress, which I 
decline, thinking I had better retire. 



NOVEMBER 2«< Nominated to the next Congress; 
much pleased by the kindness of my friends, but my 
belief is that I shall be most fortunate if not Elected. 13''^. 
Election — voting for Gov., State Officers, Members of 
Congress, etc.; the Know Nothings unexpectedly carried 
all before them. After fully declining to be a Candidate, 
at the solicitation of my friends, I accepted the nomination 
expecting to have been chosen, but I am beaten by Mr. 
Burlingame who opposed me two years since, receiving 
about fifteen hundred votes (Free Soilers); he now reed 
six thousand. I am satisfied that I was right in standing, 
and do not regret not being Elected. 24'^'. We dined with 
our brother & sisters^ in Temple Place. 25^^^ Occupied in 

' Thomas C, Rebecca and Isabella Amory. 



i855] Diary 173 

getting ready for Washington. 28^^'. Sale Eastern Railroad 
Bonds from one to ten years, averaging about 83 per C', 
yielding more than 10 per O. Georgiana left for Cincinnati. 
29'^^. Left for Washington. 

DECEMBER ^fK Called on Prest & Lady. Much 
pleased by the general expressions of Whigs &Demts 
at my not being returned to the next Congress. I am quite 
sure it is best as it is; I could not have stood better than 
at Present. 5'^. At the House; discussion as to the meeting 
of our Ministers at Ostend — useless business, merely to 
annoy the Administration. 6'^'. At the President's, at his re- 
quest; he feels badly, ii^^'. Committee & House. Useless 
discussion on the Missouri Compromise & Nebraska. 13'''^. 
At House; continued the discussion at evening. Xmas. A 
more beautiful morning I have seldom seen; the Sun in 
all its brightness and Glory. We had a party of our most 
intimate acquaintances at dinner; Mr. Badger's family of 
North Carolina, Mr. Crocker, one of my Colleagues, and 
several others. 28''''. Mrs. Appleton, Misses Amory, & 
myself dined at the President's — large party Ladies & 
Gent". 

1855 

JANUARY 1 ^^ Bright & beautiful morning; we attended 
prayers at Dr. Pyne's; then Mrs. Appleton received her 
friends; about an Hundred called, mostly members of Con- 
gress but many Citizens, who were offered Punch, Wine 
& Cake. The year past has been one of much change and 



176 William Appleton [1855 

than an Hundred of my constituents asking me to name 
a day to meet them at dinner. 3l^^ The Correspondence 
offering me a dinner is published, very gratifying to me. 

A PRIL 7'^. Went to Chelsea to Appraise Marine Hos- 
jlV pital. 1 V^. Mrs. Appleton had a collection of some 
seventy Children & a dance, at evening. iV^K Dined with 
Charles G. Loring, party in compliment to me, very pleas- 
ant persons. 20'^'. Dined with Mr. Joseph Coolidge, pleas- 
ant party of fourteen. 25'^^. Spring is fairly showing its 
verdure. 29'^^. Some snow. 

MAY 5'^^. Made some calls, among them on President 
Fillmore. 2ord^ Met the Superintendent of the In- 
sane Hospital at the Gen'l Hospital & at Somerville; Dr. 
Bell does not look right, I fear he is too much interested 
in Spiritual Rappings. 28''^. Passed the day pleasantly at- 
tending to Mr. & Mrs. Becket, daughter of Lord Lynd- 
hurst. 29''''. Dined with Mr. Chas. Amory, party of twenty- 
four, very Elegant, equal to any I have seen. 30^^'. Charles 
arrived at Brookline at midnight. 

JUNE 20'^'. Went to the City, preparatory to a journey 
with Mrs. Appleton. 2 P-. Left ^t^Yz P.M. for Saratoga; 
Mr. & Mrs. Higginson, Mr. Inches, fellow travellers. 25'^^. 
We find a pleasant party from Salem, consisting of Mrs. 
F. & George Peabody, Mr. Endicott & son, Mrs. Rogers 
& several acquaintances from New York & Charleston. 
June ih^^ to 



1855] Diary 177 

JULY 3''< Mrs. Appleton & myself are taking the 
waters freely & with pleasant effect. On the evening 
of 3rd, while standing on the piazza at the U. S. Hotel, I 
was struck by a rocket, accidentally sent, much bruised 
in my thigh, & Lower part of my body; applied ice and 
was able to leave my bed on the 2nd day. 4''''. Noisy time; 
mostly in bed but had many kind callers. 5''^. Getting 
about with difficulty, quite lame. 6'^'. Left for Boston, slept 
at Bellows Falls. 16'^'. Some inconvenience from my late 
accident; Dr. Warren says it will soon pass off. 19/^^. Party 
of young Ladies & Gent" in the evening, Charles' ac- 
quaintances; rather gay, but pleasant. 

AUGUST 18^^. Left Nahant after a sojourn of ten 
^ days. I find my friend Abbott Lawrence departed 
this morning at eleven o'clock. 20'^. Went with William 
& Charles to Boston; attended a meeting at Faneuil Hall, 
to take measures to show our respect to Mr. Lawrence; 
well attended & much interest shown. Mr. Everett & Mr. 
Winthrop made very appropriate remarks; the Preamble 
& Resolutions by Mr. Nathan Appleton excellent. 21^'. 
Called on Mrs. Lawrence; she spoke of the love her hus- 
band had for me. She bears her affliction with much firm- 
ness. 2 2 '"^.Attended the funeral ofmy late and valued friend 
Lawrence, I was one of the Pall Bearers; the Church 
crowded & a large number went to Mount Auburn where 
there was a third Service; first, at the House, second, at 
the Church, third, at the grave. Mr. Lawrence was a wise. 



i8o William Appleton [1855 

faculties not diminished as far as I can observe, and from 
what my friends say I fancy they think so: my memory 
is not what it was. I know it to be my duty to put my 
House in order; my days are numbered and few. I have 
my temporal affairs in such state that I think they will be 
understood. IF'*. Our daughter Mrs. Lawrence delivered 
of a daughter. 25'^'. Went to see Mrs. Lawrence ; found her 
quite comfortable with a fine child. 

DECEMBER vf. Mr. Haskell at dinner; I think him 
a sensible man. &^'. Attended a sale of Land at Law- 
rence ; a magnificent place for a Manufacturing City. Com- 
menced with much zeal & by men of capital & intelli- 
gence, but on a large scale; time may bring it up, but at 
present it looks as if years would pass before any income 
will be received from the Stocks in the Essex Company. 
I doubt if the Machine Shop, costing seven hundred & 
fifty thousand dollars, is worth anything. 14'^. Charles had 
a party of twenty of his young friends at a six O'clock 
dinner; all went off pleasantly, Mrs. Appleton & myself 
at the table. 22«< Charles informed his Mother and my- 
self of his engagement to Miss Mason; I understand she 
is a pleasant, amiable woman. I am glad to have him get 
engaged, as I think it safer for him so to do. Xmas. We 
had our children & most of our grandchildren at dinner 
& some in addition in the evening. The day we celebrate 
as the one of the most of all interesting to the race of 
man; it beyond question is so; the religion of Jesus Christ 
has done more for the temporal wants of man than all 



1856] Diary 181 

other religions, and to us who believe, we would make no 
comparison between the temporal & the eternal benefits. 
Would to God my faith was brighter; I find at times I am 
unhappy by striving to know what was not intended to be 
communicated; Nicodemus like, I say, "How can these 
things be?" The last year we have had Blessings not only 
far beyond our deserts, but greater than usual; so much 
so that I have thought of a remark of my Good Mother: 
*'When we have much given us. We should be on our 
guard lest we become proud and require chastisement." 
29''''. Dined at Judge Warren's, a pleasant party; salt fish 
dinner. 

1856 

JANUARY i^''. The last year closed my sojourn in 
Washington. I am satisfied it was better I should not 
longer continue in Congress. I feel that I was of some value 
among the many in Congress but my usefulness was much 
overrated there, and among my constituents. Our sons who 
were absent a year since, have returned well; we had much 
anxiety for them while they were with their sick friend in 
Damascus. I truly feel that it is not important that I should 
increase my property which at a moderate valuation is 
worth fifteen hundred thousand dollars, but I am not likely 
so to do; as expenses of my own House, my children's & 
Mrs. Appleton's & my relatives, with such charities as I 
have pleasure in bestowing will take the ordinary income 
of that sum. It is my intention to withdraw wholly or nearly 
so from commerce the coming year. 3'"'''. It is good sleigh- 



184 William Appleton [1856 

& no part of my business transactions am I better satisfied 
with. He leaves his family more than four Hundred thou- 
sand dollars, and not a bad piece of Property amongst it. 
He was as attentive to my family as I was to his inter- 
est; neither ever made a charge for services. He was a 
man of strong mind, strong prejudices, true to his friends, 
but had not many. A true follower of Christ; at times 
more & less zeal; many, many good points of Character. 
6'^. Most of the morning at the Residence of Dr. Warren 
arranging for the morrow, y^^ Funeral services of Dr. 
Warren at St. Paul's Church; very large attendance, all 
with much order & solemnity. 8'^. Engaged in arrang- 
ing Dr. Warren's papers; some time at the House & had 
much talk with Dr. Jackson; I hope they will not have 
his Bones made into a skeleton and put in the Medical 
College as he requested, i^^h^ "VVe, Mrs. A. & myself, left 
for a journey. 16'^'. Arrived at Washington, pleasantly re- 
ceived by Mr. & Miss Corcoran. 17'^. Called at President's; 
went with a party to Mount Vernon; dined at a house 
some ten Miles further down the river; very fine, pleasant 
day. li^f^'. Went to the House of Reps, very pleasantly 
Reed, some half hundred old members came to take me 
by the hand. Went to the Senate, heard Mr. Sumner speak, 
very unfortunate in his remarks, very severe on mem- 
bers of the Senate generally, & particularly on some. 20'-^. 
Dined at the President's, a small party made for us; at Mrs. 
Hill's in the evening. 22«< Left Washington much grati- 
fied by our visit, particularly by the kindness of Mr. C. 



1856] Diaiy 185 

JUNE 9^^. At the Probate Court; I do not like the idea 
of being Ex^ on Dr. Warren's Estate, I fear trouble, 
but I think it due to his wish. lo^f'. Went with Mrs. Apple- 
ton and Charles & his wife to Boston; examined Mr. Tem- 
pleman Coolidge's house & the One in Walnut Street, 
price the same ; Charles & wife prefer the latter. 2 1 ^'. Bought 
Mr. Hooper's House with all the furniture of his in it, 
for thirty thousand dollars to be paid without Int. on 1st 
Jan. next. 27'^. Club dinner at Mr. Motley's at Dedham. 

JULY 4^^. Went to Waltham; violent shower of rain & 
hail, as I returned; came very nigh being run against 
by the train on the Worcester Rail Road at the crossing at 
Newton Centre; the rain & wind prevented the man being 
out with the flag & my hearing the whistle ; I was quite near 
the engine when it passed. My time has not come; there 
is more for me to do on earth; God give me strength & 
grace to finish my days for the benefit of my fellow Men. 
5'^. Went to the City and called to see Dr. Paulding, 
who was kind to my Sons in Damascus. I gave One Hun- 
dred dollars to his infant child born on the passage in the 
Steamer lately arrived. 6'-^. Detained from Church by a 
slight accident; in returning from Boston yesterday the 
Horse took fright & the seat of the wagon fell on my 
ancle. 2^^^'. Got bit by a dog at the Stable of the late Dr. 
Warren. I was bit after turning from the dog, which was 
tied with a long Rope; his bite was through my coat. 
Pants, & drawers. Within the last month I have three 



i88 William Appleton [1856 

SEPTEMBER 3'-< State Convention met at Tremont 
Temple. Whig meeting; Mr.Winthrop & others made 
good Speeches. 5^^. Mary & George dined with us; he is 
very bright & pleasant, but very little strength of Consti- 
tution, i"]'^. A grand & beautiful assemblage on account 
of the exhibition of the Statue of Franklin; fine day; 
services very acceptable. 22«< Went to the City and saw 
Mrs. Coolidge, appeared as well as for some time; she was 
confined at evening, giving us our fifteenth Grand Child, 
a daughter. 29^^'. Left Boston with my Wife, Mr. J. S. & 
Mrs. Amory, Mrs. Greene & Miss Isabella Amory for 
Phild. My time was pleasantly occupied in the Conven- 
tion and religious exercises and Social parties until Oc- 
tober 21st when the Convention closed the business. We 
found many old friends & made many acquaintances, & 
heard many excellent sermons; one from Bishop Otey, sub- 
ject The Penitent Thief, pleased me so much that I have 
had five thousand printed, trusting others may be benefited 
by them. 

OCTOBER 24'^^. I find myself much taken up with 
my friends on the subject of again allowing my name 
to be used as a candidate for Congress. Late at night was 
called up by the sound of music; small party of Gent" 
came in to our House &took wine. Mr. Winthrop & Mr. 
Stevenson, it was said, made very pleasant & complimen- 
tary remarks at Faneuil Hall in relation to me for the posi- 
tion for which I am Nominated. 25''''. Several persons called 



1856] Diary 189 

on me for an explanation as to what would be my course 
in case I should be elected to Congress in relation to the 
Naturalization Laws. I endeavoured to answer fairly, but 
as both sides appeared satisfied I fear they do not under- 
stand me & will give the idea that I have two stories; I try 
to be conscientious in my answers. 28''^'. "Courser" arrivd 
at New York, 156 days from China; much to my relief 
29''''. Much interested in talking of the coming election. 
I do not wish to be beaten, yet I shall in one week be 
better satisfied if not elected. 3F'. Our community seem 
all engaged in politicks; perhaps the only office in which 
there is much doubt is whether Mr. Burlingame or myself 
will be elected for Congress; my opinion is that I shall have 
many more votes than he will, but most of my friends doubt. 

NOVEMBER 1^'. They say Mr. Burlingame will be 
elected; I do not think so, yet I almost hope he will. 
Mr. Stanley, former member of Congress, came to make 
us a visit. 3^< Went with Mr. Stanley to Cambridge, 
Mount Auburn, Hospitals, Jail & over most of our City. 
<\f^. This was the day of the election of President, U. S. 
Officers, Gov, etc. of Masses & Members of Congress 
from this State. The excitement much greater than usual, 
the result very doubtful through the Country. I was asked 
a long time since if I would be a candidate for election to 
Congress; I declined, but was asked not to say so while 
they were making other arrangements. While in PhiH at- 
tending Episcopal Convention, I was nominated; & sev- 
eral friends, among them my long tried friend Nathan 



192 William Appleton [1856 

toward him, but I do not know, I have no reason to beUeve 
the person lives who wishes me harm; or in common par- 
lance that I have an enemy, & I can truly say I do not 
know the person toward whom I have an unkind feeling. 
I do not mean I feel alike to all, 

DECEMBER IK Went to see my friend F. C. Gray 
who we do not expect to live long; I asked him if 
he had any wish as to the location of the Marble he placed 
in the grove near my House at Brookline; he said none 
other than it remain where it was as long as any son or 
grandchild should, on seeing it, be reminded of the friend- 
ship that existed between himself & me; after that he 
had no wish as to its destination. 1 1'^'. Hetty's child chris- 
tened; Mrs. Coolidge, for whom it was named, stood as 
sponsor with the Parents; most of our children were pres- 
ent. 15'-^. I called on Mr. Peabody; had a dinner for him 
at the Revere House; very well arranged. I presided, Mr. 
Everett & others made speeches. iS'-^. Dinner at Mr. 
Thayer's, large party made for Mr. Peabody of London. 
23''< I dined at Mr. Sears' with Mr. Peabody & some dozen 
gentlemen; I have been invited to meet Mr. Peabody of 
London at a succession of dinner parties, six or eight. I 
find I can so controul my appetite that I am not incon- 
venienced by this dining. I can eat plain food to the extent 
of my desire; no wish for Puddings, pastry, fruit, or Ice. I 
once thought if I could eat as much bread or Rice as to 
satisfy my hunger I should be very happy. 24'^^ Mrs. Ap- 
pleton very busy in making preparations for tomorrow. 



1857] Diary 193 

31^^ We dined at Mr. Coolidge's, no company except the 
dear babies. 

1857 

JANUARY 1^^ The past year has been one of unusual 
excitement in the Pohtical World, or more properly, 
in the United States. The feeling that the Southern por- 
tion of the Country were intending to extend slavery into 
the Territories caused the excitement at the North, and 
there appeared to be a feeling that could not be checked, 
but since the Presidential Election we are getting quiet. 
Many have thought there would be a dissolution of the 
Union; I have no fears on that subject. I was, as I now 
think, most fortunate in not being again elected to Con- 
gress. The past year has been one of general prosperity in 
our Country in this region; there has been a depression in 
the price of Rail Road & Manufacturing stocks, but the 
income generally equal to an interest of six per cent. It 
has been my intention to retire from commercial pursuits, 
but for various causes I continue; I think I may be use- 
ful to my wife & children & while it pleases God that I 
should remain on earth & I have health, I feel it a duty 
& a pleasure to be active in looking after my business & 
protecting others' affairs. 2«< Attended the funeral of my 
long tried friend, F.C.Gray; a most excellent heart he 
had, intelligent beyond almost any, very industrious in 
gaining information and most happy in communicating it 
to others. I was in a position to be useful to him ; he al- 
ways expressed his gratitude; not satisfied with express- 



196 William Appleton [1857 

MAY 1^^ Not much appearance of Spring; grays 
greet green, i V'^. Our daughter, Mrs. Dexter, de- 
livered of a Son this morning, we are much relieved from 
anxiety. 12^^. Went to Mr. Lawrence's, a children's Play; 
passed the night; quite cold, ice was seen. 13'''^ Mr. Apple- 
ton & Son of Beverly at dinner. iG''^. We are anxious for 
our dear Harriet, she has some fever & pain. 17'^. Harriet 
quite ill, more so than yesterday; all of us very anxious. 
2'^^. The early report from Harriet was that she had a 
good night, but when Dr. Storer came he said she was 
not as well as the day before; at two o'clock she showed 
symptoms of nervous affection by talking without being 
conscious. I went with her mother to see her; she fell into 
a sleep which continued the afternoon; at ten o'clock I left 
and thought she might have a quiet night. 24^^^ On go- 
ing to my dressing-room I found a note from Mr. Dexter 
saying our dear daughter had expired at yi past eleven 
o'clock the last night; it is a great shock to us; she was 
bright, good & lovely. This is the sixth of our children 
who have gone before us; five after arriving at the age of 
maturity, four leaving offspring. We are not like those 
without hope ; there was no spot of immorality attached 
to any of them; all died as we believe in full faith of re- 
demption through Jesus Christ. This last affliction takes 
one much endeared to a large circle, with many personal 
attractions; she had a brilliant mind, very decided opin- 
ions, frank in expressing them; a very constant warm- 
hearted friend, a most devoted Wife to an adoring Hus- 



i857] Diary 197 

band. Their seven years of married life was a most happy- 
period: her constitution not strong, yet with less positive 
illness than most, she appeared to be almost constructed 
of nerves. The death of her first child at a few months 
grieved her much. She had a great pleasure in becoming 
the mother of another child; she lived two weeks after its 
birth. He has now the appearance of health & we trust will 
be a consolation to us all. 26'^. This day we followed to 
the Church & tomb the remains of our dear Harriet. Often 
have we been called to the sad service, but never more 
fully were the sluices of grief opened; we loved her much 
but God has taken her; we try to say, "Thy will be done." 
It is hard to separate from those we much love, but Nature 
& the religion we profess tell us we shall meet again. Gor- 
don is much depressed. 28'^'. Rode to Brookline with Mrs. 
Lawrence and her children; it always gives me a great 
pleasure to be with her. 

JUNE 2«< Mr. Dexter with us at dinner, I never saw 
a more sincere mourner. ^^^'. We removed to Brookline. 
5'^^ Mr. & Mrs. Coolidge with the dear children came 
to stay with us, i&^. The dear Infant our Harriet left was 
Christened at their late residence: Mr. Dexter, Grand 
Mother & myself Sponsors, ij'^'. Grand celebration plac- 
ing the Statue of Gen'l Warren on Bunker Hill. 25/'''. Mr. 
Dexter took his infant son to Beverly. 2'j^^'. Mr. Dexter 
came with me to Brookline. 



200 William Appleton [1857 

pension is only temporary. My belief is without more 
knowledge than my neighbours, that if their effects are dis- 
posed of soon, they will pay but a portion of their liabili- 
ties, I fear less than the half 2H'. I found on going to 
the City much excitement on account of failures in PhiH, 
and it was said Lawrence, Stone & Co. were not able to 
get on ; two per Cent per month was paid on twenty-five 
thousand dollars, first rate note. I returned home much 
troubled for my friends and not without apprehension lest 
I should suffer with others, yet my business could hardly 
be more compact; income will be much lessened. 22«< I 
find I am getting old; formerly my own or others' business 
affairs did not affect my sleep, not so the last night. 23^"^ 
Passed most of the day in relation to the affairs of Law- 
rence, Stone & Co. 2^'^'. I am in much doubt what is the 
position of Lawrence, Stone & Co. and how they stand 
with the Corporations with which they are connected. I 
have seldom felt so much anxiety & doubt how to act. 
l^^^K I have been all day engaged in endeavouring to get 
the Bankers to Loan the Bay State, Middlesex, & Pem- 
berton Corporations five hundred Thousand dollars, in 
which I have succeeded, but I now doubt if it will effect 
the object entirely. We hear of the failures of the Bank of 
Pennsylvania & the Girard Bank in Phil^. 2&^K The af- 
fairs of business appear gloomy; much is said as to whether 
the Banks in New York & Boston will suspend specie 
payments, I think they will not, it is not necessary. 28'^'. 
Much excitement in the Money market & whether Banks 
will suspend. 29'''^. We are told that the Banks in New 



1857] Diary 201 

York are strong. 30''''. We have various accounts from New 
York, I Telegraphed for information; remained in the City, 
dined at Mr. N. Appleton's. 

OCTOBER 1^^ They say all is strong in New York, 
it now depends on the Banks; if they do not take 
the risk of discounting freely they will cause the Merchants 
to fail, & then stop. Lawrence, Stone & Co. are protested 
this day, the effect will not be as bad as generally thought; 
I fear they will not have property to pay their debts. 2«< 
Meeting Merchants was supposed to have been called to 
ask the Banks to suspend specie payments; it took a dif- 
ferent course, and they denied any such intentions. I feel 
less confidence in their strength than I did ; if the Banks 
do not let out money freely there will be a general break- 
ing up of Merchants & Manufacturing Cos. Had a meet- 
ing at Mr. J. A. Lowell's, he is much alarmed on account 
of his liability for the Pemberton Mills; he owns two 
hundred thousand or y^ of the Stock; lOOQ^ pd. Notes for 
ioo2i; my belief is that he will not lose as much as his Stock 
200^; that he will have 3002^ Property left. 3''^. The 
hardest day for Merchants & traders I have ever seen, 
money, or the use of it at two to three per cent per month, 
undoubted paper; several failures; much anxiety for the 
Steamer from California. I have doubts if the New York 
and Boston Banks do not have to suspend specie pay- 
ments — I think they will hold out, but it is uncertain. 
4/^'. Went to Boston, attended St. Paul's Church, Com- 
munion ; regret much to find myself so much agitated as 



204 William Appleton [1857 

bold, Stevens, Tileston, and various other gentlemen in- 
terested in the Banks ; they feel that it was a mistake in 
pressing the payments so far as to induce persons to com- 
pel the Banks to suspend, but the worst is past and things 
will get into their natural course. Money will be easy ere 
long. 28'''^ Arrived & slept at Springfield. 29/^. Went with 
Mr. Loring, Minot, Jackson & Coolidge to the Hamp- 
den Mills. 31^^. Things do not get right, I fear more fail- 
ures. Mrs. Appleton has a bad cold. 

NOVEMBER 4/^. Our Ship "Edith Rose" sailed for 
China; I think well of the voyage; the goods she 
takes will arrive to a good market & tea will be much 
lower than early in the season, ^'^k At my suggestion, sev- 
eral persons interested in the Lawrence Machine Co. met 
and agreed to loan the Company, which if carried into 
effect prevents there being a failure to meet their indebt- 
edness. I consider this the most important thing I have 
done for months; it much affects the interest of Mr, G. W. 
Lyman and others on their paper, Mrs. A. better. 6'^'. Our 
accounts from Europe are more encouraging. 8''''. Mr. Ward 
& Capt. Swift at my House in relation to the Michigan 
Rail Road. xo^^. Michigan Rail Road Bonds are taken; 
I have none, I do not like the management. Rev. E. M. P. 
Wells with us at tea; a good man, with many eccentrici- 
ties. 13''''. We have Telegraphic accounts from England, 
India & China which appear favourable. 14''''. Our letters 
confirm the pleasant intelligence by Telegraph of yester- 
day, except the prospects of trade from China. We hear 



1857I Diary 205 

our Ship "Nabob" is safe, but shall probably lose by the 
voyage. \6'^'. Seventy-one years old; think myself as use- 
ful to my family & friends as at any period of my life. 
18'^'. I have been occupied with other persons' affairs; I am 
most happy when fully engaged in doing what others avoid, 
in accomplishing what others cannot or will not attempt. 
2^'^'. We have accounts of the Banks of England being 
allowed to extend their circulation. I fancy it will be fol- 
lowed by a Suspension of Specie payments. 30''''. Much 
engaged in my business — removed to 8j4 Tremont 
Street. 

DECEMBER 3'"< Accounts from England show as 
much over trading as on this side of the water; there 
will be much dullness in business for the year to come, 
but we shall soon forget the present troubles. 4'^^ Our in- 
formation in detail shows that there is a better feeling in 
England, yet they are not out of the woods. 8'''^ Almost a 
Spring day, rode with Mrs. Appleton. Quite at leisure by 
comparison, lo''''. No news, things are getting quiet. iV^. 
Passed an hour with Col. Fremont, a pleasant man. 16'''^ 
Sir Charles Fox & son with W^ & Jefferson at dinner. Sir 
Charles is very pleasant, I should like to know more of 
him. 25'''', Xmas. At Church; sad to think our dear Harriet 
who communed with us the last year is no more. Why say 
sad! We loved her much; we shall soon meet again as we 
trust & believe in a World where there is no death nor sor- 
row; Blessed Hope. Philosophers without the blessed hope 
that we should meet again, reconciled themselves in the 



2o8 William Appleton [1858 

that region are settled, & goods will fall so as to give a 
good profit from Calcutta within one year. I do not think 
my property would sell at this time for more than it would 
four or five years since; my real estate is more valuable; 
the House in which I write & have occupied nearly forty 
years, I refused forty-five thousand for, to Mr. F. Sears, 
for which, I paid fourteen thousand dollars. I am surprised 
that I take so active an interest in business; I cannot think 
it is all for gain, as I feel as much interest & zeal when 
occupied for others as when for myself; this is to be ac- 
counted for, in the pleasure of doing what others cannot 
do, & to get applause for so doing; not a high motive, but 
better than a sordid one. It has been my intention to retire 
from Commercial pursuits, but causes not quite within my 
controul lead me to continue for the present. I have great 
interest in my sons-in-law Mr. Dexter & Mr. Coolidge & 
wish to aid them by my advice, and I do not forget the 
advice of my friend Bowditch : " Continue business while 
you have health, it will be well for yourself, your family & 
the community." 2«<Our dear Hetty confined; a healthy 
daughter, they say. S*^. Bought this day ten Tliousand dol- 
lars of stock in Lyman Mills at Springfield, 42^ per Cent 
of the cost; Active capital of more than 22 per cent. I think 
the stock will double the present market price & will pay 
eight per cent div. the next five years on the par value. 
lo^'^. At Dr. Vinton's Church in the morning to hear Mr. 
Mason, brother of Charles H. A.'s Wife. 1 V^^. At Stand- 
ing Committee & the Life Office most of the morning. 
13'^. Meeting Stockholders Boston & Providence Rail 






■ r 

#> I: 




^ 2 



1858] Diary 209 

Road. I did not attend; I said I would not serve as a di- 
rector, but I thought I would not go there and decline. I 
do not think I agree with the other directors as to the par- 
ticular interest of the road; I think we should look more 
to the general interest of railroads, & avoid competition; 
We shall have a grand quarrel, but I may do good in ar- 
ranging matters. \^'^'. Club at my house; present. Judge 
Shaw, William Sturgis, Nathan Appleton, Thomas Mot- 
ley, Charles P. Curtis, N. Hale, and C. H. Warren. 2H'. 
Beautiful day. Mrs. Burnham went to see them skate on 
Jamaica Pond. 30'^'. Called to see Francis C. Lowell just re- 
turned from France; very excellent man. 3F''. Mr. Greene 
preached before the Society for the Children's Home ^ in 
Charles Street; — he shew that he can write well & his 
delivery & manner very acceptable, a most earnest and 
devoted man; I think he will be less rigid in his theological 
views if he lives ten years. 

FEBRUARY 10'^'. Went with the Trustees Humane 
Society to have a photograph taken. 

MARCH 5/^'. Dined with Trustees of the Humane 
Society at Dr. Warren's; splendid dinner. 19'-^. Sale 
of our tea in New York. Mr. Dexter says it was equal to 
expectation. 30''''. Mrs. Coolidge's third daughter chris- 
tened Sarah Lawrence. Father, Mother, & Mrs. Lawrence 
were sponsors. 

' Church Home Society. 



212 William Appleton [1858 

Falls at Mid Day; very clear & pleasant atmosphere; 
very interesting Country we passed. At 5>^ P.M., arrived 
at U. S. Hotel, found our rooms prepared; the place 
improved, very handsome. 17'^'. We find several old ac- 
quaintances, among them Mr. Conrad of New Orleans, 
Dr. Duncan of Natchez, Mr. J. A. Stevens, New York; 
the Hotel not crowded. \c)'^'. Mrs. Appleton passed most 
of the morning with Mrs. Banks, an old friend, formerly 
Miss Lenox. We met Mrs. Stoeckl, wife of the Russian 
Minister, & Mr. Chubb of Washington; much talk of 
Washington friends. 22"^''. Made & rec^ several calls; Rus- 
sian Minister, Lady & Captain in Russian Service among 
the number. 2^'^'. Find ourselves at home; all well, pleas- 
ant trip, no accident, with much to gratify us. 2^]'^. Mrs. 
Appleton had our children & most of our grand children 
with us ; Charles Hook's &c W^'s Emily's birthday. 

AUGUST 6^^. Went with Mrs. Appleton to Nahant; 
±\. dined at Mrs. Greene's to meet Lord& Lady Napier, 
pleasant Party of fourteen. 10^'''. Engaged in arranging to 
dispatch the ship "Orion" for Calcutta via San Francisco. 
13^''^ Charles' infant quite ill. Rode to see them load the 
Cars with gravel, ly-''. All talk of the Telegraph Cable. 
2VK Charles' infant very low. 23'"^ Attended funeral of 
J. C. Appleton, infant son of C. H. & Isabella M. Ap- 
pleton. 

SEPTEMBER 6'^. Mr. Shepherd & Mrs. Brooks at 
tea. 9'^^. Went to see Mr. Dexter & the dear boy. 1 V^. 



1858] Diary 213 

Went to the City; returned with Mrs. Coolidge & my pet 
Nora. 21^^ Mr. Ebenezer Francis died, I have known 
him for fifty years; a much better man than he has been 
thought in our community. 23'''^. Mr. Francis' funeral, 
much said of his property. I have never so much felt the 
vanity of riches. 

OCTOBER \VK Called on Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Davis. 
\y^. Dedication of the Appleton Chapel at Cam- 
bridge; services very good. 28^^^. Mr. & Mrs. & Miss Sils- 
bee came to pass the day & night with us to attend the 
wedding of Mr, Hammond & Miss Warren; very large 
Elegant wedding. 

NOVEMBER 2«'/. Election of Govr & Members of 
Congress, etc. The Principles of the Party better than 
the men, Republican. iC^'. Went with William to New- 
ton to see Master Frank, well situated we found him. 1 V'k 
Went to Somerville; pleased with Dr. Tyler. I have never 
disposed of money that gives more satisfaction to myself 
than the buildings I put up there; I shall die with less 
regret, feeling that if any of mine required an Asylum, 
there was one befitting their Wants. 13''''. Frank with us. 
Mr. Dexter took his boy to Mrs. Lawrence's.^ 25'^'. Mr. 
Augustus Thorndike died at Tremont House. 

DECEMBER 2«< Dined with party given by Sena- 
tor Wilson to talk on Tariff; pleasant dinner, and 

' He stayed there until May, 1864. 



2i6 William Appleton [1859 

but think it is best it should be so. 27'^', Dr. Stone gave us a 
most splendid sermon on Repentance. 

APRIL 5'^^. Went to hear Henry Ward Beecher on 
jl\. Burns; \ only -pleased, iv^. Mrs. Burnham left us; she 
is a fine woman and much improved. 1']^^. Left with Mrs. 
Appleton & George (servant) for New York. & Philadel- 
phia. 

MAY or^K Left for New York, pleasant passage, met 
Mrs. N. Appleton at Brevoort House — pleasantly 
lodged. 5'^'. Went to Wall Street, some shops, to see some 
Pictures, bought a carriage, etc. 6''''. Left for home, hard 
day's ride, much dust. 13'-^. Dr. & Mrs. Nicholson came 
to stop with us; some thirty or forty persons to meet them 
in the evening. 15'-^. Two sermons from Dr. N.; very well 
received, but long, — 45 & 50 mins. x'-j^f'. Our friends left 
us; I think well of them. I fancy he will become Rector of 
St. Paul's, I hope he will; there will be opposition, but he 
is a Man of talents & discretion & will soon overcome 
it, I trust and doubt not if he shortens his Sermons. 29/^'. 
Charles' wife presented him with a daughter this morning. 
31^^ Mr. Dexter left us for Europe & China. I have much 
affection & respect for him. 

JUNE 22«< Dined with Mr. Coolidge;' Boat Race. 
26'^^. At Dr. Stone's church, Bishop Boone preached in 
afternoon, he came & slept at our House; I gave five hun- 

* 93 Beacon Street. The sea wall and river were directly behind tlie house. 



1859] Diary 217 

dred dollars to China Mission. 30'^^. Mrs. Coolidge con- 
fined, Child died in the delivery. 

JULY 1^'. Went with Mrs. Appleton to Boston; put the 
infant of our dear daughter in Tomb under St. Paul's 
Church. The ways of God are mysterious to us, but all 
right. 2«< Attended meeting of Committee of One Hun- 
dred in relation to the Webster Memorial; Mr. Everett 
was not present, his wife in a dying state. We effected our 
object, more feeling than judgment in the contention. 1 1'^'. 
Meeting of committee, Mr. Everett & others, as to plac- 
ing statue of Mr. Webster. 14'^'. We hear of the death of 
Mr. Choate at Halifax. A man of extraordinary powers as 
an orator; none stood higher as an Advocate. 22«< Meet- 
ing at Faneuil Hall, occasioned by death of Mr. Choate. 

A UGUST4/^. Went with Mrs. Appleton to Newport, 
jlV where we passed six days very pleasantly with W'" 
Jr.'s family. We found them pleasantly situated and dis- 
posed to make our time pass pleasantly. We met many 
of our friends and acquaintances, among them. Gov. and 
Mrs. Fish and family, Gov. Aiken, Mr. and Mrs. Stanley, 
and Gen' Taylor. William and I dined with a pleasant 
party at Dr. Mercer's of New Orleans. 15'^'. Some of Mrs. 
Lawrence's family left for the White Mountains; she re- 
mained owing to the indisposition of our dear Dexter boy. 
28''''. Uncommon appearance of the sky in the evening. 
The appearance was what is called Northern light but 
very bright extending over the whole Hemisphere. 



220 William Appleton [1859 

give her much pain. 26'-''. The day is kept as a holiday. 
We had our children & most of our grandchildren at 
dinner, & some few in addition in the evening. Mrs. Ap- 
pleton went to the dinner-table, but suffered much in- 
convenience. 27^^. Mrs. A. not as well this morning. 
Passed all the fore part of the day at Hospital Life In* Co. 
examining accounts. Shall have a nurse tomorrow; our 
daughters & sons attentive to their Mother; Dr. Jackson 
visited her, I fancy he thinks her severely ill. 31^. The new 
year would begin with bright prospects but for the present 
alarming indisposition of my dear Wife. Drs. Jackson & 
Warren lead me to think her disease is on the heart and 
that it is not probable that she will again have her health 
but that of a delicate invalid; that she may and probably 
will get up so as to move about, think she is getting well 
and then be brought down, thus vibrating but not rising 
above the disease. It is sad, very sad. I have almost from the 
commencement of our marriage life contemplated from 
my Age & broken Constitution that when we separated I 
should be first called — (it may be so) — and from the time 
I was making my first Will in 1816 She was first consid- 
ered; I then gave her the half of the property I might have, 
and in all the changes since I have ever thought of her 
comfort and independence when I was gone and provided 
accordingly. This is the first serious illness she has had dur- 
ing our married life of forty-five years within a few days. 
We, during that period, have had many, many blessings. 
We have lived happily (I think) as the World goes, but 
I would not be understood to say we always thought alike 



i86o] Diary 221 

and that difference of opinion was always expressed in as 
mild and considerate terms as it should have been. There 
was never a want of love, confidence, or respect. She always 
leaned on me, I always loved her dearly and never doubted 
her affection for a moment; were I to say there was never 
a Word passed that was not in harmony, my children, 
should this come to their eyes, would not give me that 
credit for sincerity that I wish from them. I am writing 
under a cloud, a depression of spirits; we may yet live 
happily together in health. 



i860 

JANUARY H/. Our business, Wm.Appleton & Co., for 
three years past, after deducting interest, has been so 
near an even one that I offered to let Mr. Hooper & Dex- 
ter take the Profit or loss; but they declined; since, they 
have offered to take it, but I said nay; yet I do not think 
there can be ten thousand Profit in all. My income the past 
year must have been one Hundred Thousand dollars, the 
half at least I expend & give. 2«< Much provoked at the 
course taken in relation to putting down the fare in the 
B. & P. R.R. i8'^^ Mrs. Appleton to my surprise by di- 
rection of Jackson & Warren rode around the Common. 
19''''. Mrs. A. did as yesterday. Mrs. Charles Amory gave 
a fancy Ball; Splendid. 28'^'. Vestry meeting in relation to 
selling St. Paul's Church, I do not like the idea but stated 
to the gentlemen I should not be in the way of their wishes 
but should give no time or take part in the enterprise. 



224 William Appleton [i860 

came to sympathize with me. 7'^. Rec'i many very kind 
letters, among them from Bishop Potter & Dr. Vinton. 
8'^^, Easter Sunday. Attended Church; sad not to have 
my dear Wife to go with me, but God rules the World 
and all in Mercy. Would I could say Amen, in Truth. 
10'''''. I have only been out to see Hetty's Children; been 
looking over Mrs. Appleton's papers & journal, sad, but 
many marks of kindness & wisdom, always frank & hon- 
est. 12'^. Mrs. Coolidge & Mamie at dinner. 14/^'. Mr. 
Coolidge & family have joined me ; I trust it will prove 
a pleasant arrangement; he says & wrote me he was dis- 
posed to come, yet it must be a great sacrifice to him to 
give up their Establishment; I shall do all I can to make 
it pleasant. 15''^'. At Church; Confirmation by Bishop: six- 
teen females, one male. \()'f'. Hetty much engaged in remov- 
ing their furniture. 17^^. Busy in arranging for Hetty's 
Household. 19''^. Charles went to reside at 93 Beacon St. 
23''< Randolph Coolidge & Miss Gardner called in the 
evening, I doubt if they are ever married. 

MAY \^f^. Went to Brookline preparing to sell 
House. 18'^'. Went to Concord with Dr. Shattuck; 
found Frank quite well & pleasantly situated. 24'^^ The 
House that we resided in for twenty years in Brookline 
I sold this day for twenty-three thousand dollars; about 
the cost of the buildings; great changes have taken place 
in our family since I built the House. We had much 
pleasure in the residence; I sold it with many regrets, but 
neither of my Children wished to retain it. 25''^. Went to 



i86o] Diary 225 

Brookline to meet Mr. Henry Upham who purchased my 
House ; he appears satisfied with the purchase but I think 
he made a mistake in so doing. The three dear children 
went with me. 30''''. Our dear W^ with his family left for 
Europe; I regret his absence, his attentions to me have 
been uniformly administered, I love him much. 

JUNE i^f. I called on Mr. & Mrs. Henry of Tennessee, 
took them to ride; he made a speech at the Union 
Meeting. 2«< Mr. & Mrs. Henry & son were at dinner; 
good People, I am much pleased with them. 8'^\ Remov- 
ing the furniture from Brookline; sad at the giving up of 
the place, but all right. 13'''^ Meeting directors Salmon 
Falls Company. 

JULY 13/^. Accompanied by Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence I 
went to their House at Longwood. 16^^^. I have had a 
delightful visit, Sarah is one of the best of Wives, Mothers, 
friends & housekeepers; all order & not fuss. 

AUGUST 17/^. Returned from Boston to Newport with 
. Sarah's daughter Susie, a nice little girl. 18^^. Very 
quiet, rode to the village with Hetty; very pleasant to be 
with the Children. 

SEPTEMBER 5'^^ Wrote Mr. Grinnell in relation to 
the approaching election, saying: "Are the greatest 
portion of our State, Abolitionists? I think not. This can be 
tested & should be by the approaching election of Gov- 



228 William Appleton [i860 

NOVEMBER5''^. Very exciting day. At evening was 
Complimented by a Torch Light Procession, very 
well arranged; I made a short speech. The feeling of my 
friends is that I shall be elected to Congress. The other side 
is equally confident. I do not think I shall be elected nor 
do I in my heart wish it. 6'^. At three o'clock I went to 
Vote, found the report of chances in favour ot Mr. Bur- 
lingame. Mr. Coolidge reported at four o'clock that as ad- 
vices were from Cambridge Mr. B. must be elected. Went 
with Hetty to Longwood, told them what we supposed 
was the result of the Election; I said I was pleased; the 
dear daughters, Mrs. Lawrence & Coolidge, said, "If you, 
Father, are satisfied, we are delighted, we never wished you 
to go again to Washington." On our return we found the 
report was that I was elected; and before nine o'clock our 
street was crowded with those who favoured my Election, 
with musick. Torch Light procession, etc., etc. Mr. J. T. 
Stevenson addressed me from the Crowd; I made some 
remarks & was followed by Mr. Hillard & several other 
gentlemen; the Crowd continued until near eleven o'clock; 
at Twelve Gent" came & serenaded us, Mr. Coolidge gave 
them some Wine. y'-^. Much excitement in the City; the 
whole Lincoln Ticket in the State elected, but in my dis- 
trict; and some talk of questioning the correctness of that; 
rather tired, — Mr. Coolidge done up. S''^'. Much pleased to 
have my Grand Children with us at dinner, Copley & Eliza 
Greene, who returned yesterday from Europe. Many letters 
congratulating me on my Election, I wish I was out of 



i86o] Diary 229 

the affair; I will make the best of it. 12'''''. Some excitement 
by the news from the South. \()'^. Seventy-four years Old. 
My health as good as most persons of my age; I walk up 
stairs as quick as when much younger, my weight is about 
the same as for twenty-five years, not varying more than 
one or two pounds from one hundred; my memory in most 
things is not to be depended on. My opinion on business 
subjects is considered as good as formerly. I believe I am 
much more valued in the community than I justly de- 
serve; my reputation as a man of business is high, but this 
is from success; I have been fortunate through life. I 
have had many severe trials, but the death of my dear wife 
changes all my plans for this existence, she is continually 
in my mind; I loved her much more than I could have 
supposed and all my recollections of her are most pleasing. 
My children are all attention and my interest in Mr. & 
Mrs. Coolidge and our dear little ones, is very great. My 
home is made all that can be to meet my comfort. Dined at 
Wm's with Jefferson, Hetty, Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence, Mary 
Ann, Sally and Mrs. Burnham & Dr. Vinton, who has 
come to pass a few days with us. 17^^. Went to Nantas- 
ket and to Minot's Ledge light House with Dr. Vinton, 
Mr. Coolidge & W'^^; very interesting day. 20'^'. Dinner 
Party of twenty to those most active in my Election to 
Congress, consisting of Messrs. Bacon, Paige, Stevenson, 
Beebe, Richardson, Hallett, Pierce, Bush, Bigelow, A. A. 
Lawrence, James Lawrence, making a party of younger 
men; quite pleasant; remained at table until ten O'Clock. 
22«< Much Excitement as to our Banks suspending spe- 



232 William Appleton [i860 

pleasantly and I could not but feel that if there was as 
much disposition on the part of the Republicans as there 
might be, as much as on the part of the South, things 
might be arranged; yet I do not know what would satisfy 
them; their troubles are not all with the North; the Aboli- 
tionists have done much to produce them. Left at evening 
with Mr. Read, passed pleasant evening with Mr. Ken- 
nedy; he is, like others, very anxious. 2^'^. Arrived in New 
York, saw many business people, they are much troubled 
as to Political situation of the Country; dined with Mr. 
John C. Green. 25'^ Xmas. My dear children agreed with 
me that we should not enjoy our usual family meeting on 
this Anniversary of my dear wife's & their Mother's alarm- 
ing illness. I took the cars, had a pleasant trip home in 
eight & a half Hours from New York. When we reflect, 
and view the present state of this Country, but as yes- 
terday enjoying greater privileges than any nation of 
ancient or modern times, apparently about to abandon 
the Institutions that have made us, since I was bom, from 
a poor feeble people of three or four Millions to one of 
Thirty, ranking among the important Nations of the earth, 
to throw ourselves into chaos without any real cause, we 
must feel that our Sins are such that we must have im- 
mediate Chastisement; we say continually, God rules the 
World, and all in mercy; I see nothing but His power to 
overrule the Wills of selfish wicked men that can save us 
from what would appear the greatest calamity that could 
come to our Country. God preserve us. ib^^. I enjoyed 
much the meeting of my children and their dear little ones; 



i86i] Diary 233 

I feel that my affections are greater than formerly, possi- 
bly from having fewer to love. Those who have departed 
are almost always in my mind. I shall in the course of 
nature soon follow. 29''^^ My cough troublesome, applied 
a mustard poultice; bad night. 

1861 

JANUARY 1^^. Our political atmosphere is dark, more 
so than at any time within my recollection; Madness 
rules the hour. Our glorious Union is in very great danger. 
I returned the last week from Washington; I could not 
hear any plan offered likely to unite the various parties; 
Republicans and Secessionists, uncompromising; the Presi- 
dent not in favour; I believe he intends to do what will 
promote the continuance of the Union. My impression is 
that most of the Cotton States will follow South Carolina, 
the Border Slave States will attempt to reconcile the diffi- 
culties, but will not easily succeed; a long time will pass, 
much anxiety & distress, but eventually a new Confedera- 
tion will be formed or the Constitution Amended; this will 
not be effected under President Lincoln's Administration, 
or my life. To our family the past has been an eventful 
year: it has pleased God to call the Wife of my youth 
the Mother of my Children from this Earth, an event not 
anticipated by me — otherwise, that I should go first. The 
immediate shock having passed, left as I was alone, my 
children all seeking my happiness deemed it expedient 
that Mr. & Mrs. Coolidge with their dear children, should 



236 William Appleton [1861 

Bourne, Mr. Edgar, Mr. F. C. Lowell, Mr. Jos. Coolidge, 
Pres't Sparks, Mr. Ives, Mr. Silsbee, Mr. Walley, Mr. 
Wigglesworth, Mr. Hallett, Mr. Sargent, Mr. Geo. B. Dex- 
ter, Gov.' Wells, Geni Pierce, Mr. Blake, Mr. A. A. Law- 
rence, Mr. Rice, Mr. Ritchie, Mrs. Sears, Mrs. Wormley, 
Mrs. N. Amory, Miss Amory, Miss Dexter, Mrs. Brim- 
mer, Mrs. Rowland Shaw, Madame Greene, Miss Greene, 
Miss Bartlett, Miss R. Amory, Mrs. Hooper, Miss 
Hooper, Miss Gardner, Mrs. Gardner, Mrs. J. S. Amory, 
Mrs. Gushing, Mrs. Bartlett, Mrs. Brooks, Mrs. d'Haute- 
ville, Mrs. Warren, Mrs. S. Appleton, Miss Goodwin, 
Mrs. Franklin Dexter, Mrs. Mason. 31^^, Easter Sunday. 
Went to St. Paul's for the first time since the first Sunday 
in December; I was much pleased with the sermon and 
musick, felt the solemnity of the Communion. WiUiam & 
family as usual at Tea & in the evening. 

APRIL 4^^^. Left, with Mrs. Coolidge and my servant 
±\. George, for a trip to the South via N. York. Slept at 
Springfield; arrived at the Brevoort House at five O'clock 
Friday, Mr. Amory came late at night. 6'^. We expected 
to have departed on the steamer "Nashville" this day, but 
we are delayed without knowing the cause. ']'^. Hetty & 
her friend passed some time with me. ()'^^. At four O'clock 
we went on board the Steamer " Nashville " for Charleston. 
Was told the vessels that had departed a few days since 
were bound to Charleston to reinforce Fort Sumter; we 
doubted the fact. Our passage was rough, something ot a 

* of New Hampshire. 



i86i] Diary 237 

gale. Mr. Amory, my good friend, in his berth; my servant 
ill the whole passage; I was among those the most active 
at dinner & tea. We arrived off Charleston Bar on Thurs- 
day evening; the Steamers " Atlantic," "Harriet Lane " and 
two armed Vessels near where we were moving slowly dur- 
ing the night, waiting the rise of the tide that we might 
cross the Bar. About four o'clock Friday morning we were 
apprised by the sound of Cannon, that an Attack was made 
on Fort Sumter; after some time the fire was returned with 
vigor, firing at Fort Moultrie & again at the Batteries 
on Morris Island & other Works. The interest & excite- 
ment was great; every flash we could see; then the smoke; 
then followed the report; the bomb shells we saw ascend & 
would anxiously watch whether they fell in Fort Sumter, 
from which place no shells were sent, having no mortars. 
The firing was continued during Friday without any long 
cessation from either party; at one time we thought most 
of the men in the Fort must be destroyed by fire, but 
again they shew they were alive by commencing again 
their works. The firing stopped in the afternoon of Satur- 
day; we were compelled to remain outside the Bar until 
Sunday morning. On arriving in the City, finding no one 
killed, produced emotions of gratitude in my breast that I 
have seldom or never before felt. I went to Church; pleased 
with the discourses & services. Mr. W™ B. Pringle took 
me to Church; made some calls, saw a great collection of 
Ladies and Gent" on Bay Street. At the Hotel saw many 
acquaintances, was pleasantly rec^; my health much im- 
proved. Telegraphed to our friends in Boston. Charleston 



240 William Appleton [1861 

Insane. 29''''. Went to call on French Minister at George- 
town, on the Russian & English Ministers, rode with Mr. 
Renwick & Mr. C. to see the Camp & Mr. Corcoran's 
farm. 30''''. Concluded to return to Boston. Made several 
P.P.C.'s & left at 6 P.M. 

JULY l^^ Left by seashore line for Washington with 
Judge Thomas. 4'-^. At House; chose Speaker & Clerk; 
I had dinner party of our Representatives, 10 present. 5''^'. 
Business at the House not of much interest, other than 
Press's Message. ']th. Very hot; most done up. 8''''. At the 
House; appearances are that the session will not be long. 
13''''. At Committee; called on Mr. Seward & Lord Lyons. 
My relative,^ whom I much loved, the second daughter of 
Mr. N. Appleton, was this day interred; she endeared her- 
self to me by her kind attention to my dear W^ while on 
his deathbed at Schaffhausen in 1836. She was a lovely 
woman, a great favourite; came to her death by her clothes 
taking fire while sealing a letter or making some seals. \\^h. 
Went this morning to Mr. Stevens, Chairman of the Com- 
mittee of Ways & Means, to get his consent to telegraph to 
Boston & New York that there was no cause for alarm as to 
their goods in Bonded Ware House; while at the telegraph 
office, reed Telegram announcing the death of my long 
loved friend Mr. N. Appleton. I had said I would return 
on his decease, but I was told and believed my duty was in 
this place. A bill for raising revenue was before the Com- 
mittee of Ways & Means; no other Merchant is on the 

' Mrs. Henry W. Longfellow. 



i86i] Diary 241 

Committee; I remained & got for our shipping Merchants 
much advantage as to when the duties should take effect, 
& on the Ware house goods; I feared if I left, it might be 
changed in the House or Senate. I will not speak of the 
virtues of my dear departed friend, his character will be 
fully related by others; great purity of heart he possessed. 
17/^^ Very busy with tariff Bill, then went to the Treasurer 
in relation to his project on wines & spirits; he said they 
had but imperfect information; was quite satisfied with the 
view of Committee who sent me. iS''^. The bill for increas- 
ing Revenue passed the House. W-ent to see the Massa- 
chusetts Troops. 19'^. Much excitement as to our troops 
in Virginia. 20'^. House not in session; at Committee. Din- 
ner at Mr. Crittenden's, with Sumner & the Committee of 
Ways & Means; Wilson was invited; good dinner, pleas- 
ant party. 21^'. On leaving my bed I found myself in pain 
which was continuous through the day, but not severe. 
The Physician called three or four times; ate nothing, have 
had nausea & occasional pains for most of the time since 
I arrived in this city. 22«< Slept the last night, but find 
myself quite weak this morning. We have sad accounts of 
our Army, total defeat as appears by report. I pass the day 
on the sophy. 26'^'. Dr. B. told me to go home as soon as I 
could. 30'^. Quite feeble. Went to the Committee room 
and found all present; stated to them that I felt my health 
was failing and asked if in their opinion there was any- 
thing I could do for my constituents that would justify 
my remaining in Washington. Mr. Stevens complimented 
me for my usefulness & said the work was done as to the 



244 William Appleton [1861 

NOVEMBER ord^ Sunday. The last night we had a 
terrific storm, from the N.E.; much damage to ships 
& many lives said to be lost; 13 on Egg Rock. ^^^K Elec- 
tion of Gov & other officers & a successor to me in Con- 
gress. Mr. Hooper was elected by a large majority. 6'^^ 
Went to New Bedford; could not be more kindly received 
than I was by Mr. Grinnell. 9'^^. Intended to return but 
rain prevented; I am sure they were pleased by the delay. 
1 1'^'. Left my kind friends; Mrs. G. insisted on accompany- 
ing me to the Cars in the rain. W^K Went to meet Jack- 
son Directors. I do not think our factory business well 
managed, I will sell the half of my stock. Many calls; see 
too many Persons; talked until ten O'clock; went to bed 
very much exhausted. 16'^'. Anniversary of my birthday, 
had my children, Mr. Dexter & Miss Hatty Appleton^ 
to dine; pleasant dinner, all cheerful and well. I am very 
doubtful as to my health, I have some cough, my appe- 
tite and digestion good, and my strength increases. I often 
say it is unimportant to my family & myself whether I 
depart in this or another year! I doubt not, as the day is, so 
will be my strength; yet the thought of immediate separa- 
tion from those I most love gives a shock. 18'^'. Went to 
Longwood to make a visit to my sister;^ George with me; 
find excellent rooms and all kindness. 19''''. Wheeler ^ came 
& took me to Boston; returned to dine. For a month past 

' Mrs. Greely S. Curtis. 

" Mrs. Burnham, who lived on Mountfort Street. The house is still standing. 

* His coachman. 



i86i] Diary 245 

I have eaten no meat but broiled Pork, I prefer it to any- 
thing in the way of food. 20'^'. Ate pork for breakfast & 
dinner. 23''^ Masons have about done their part to the new- 
House, the carpenters commenced the roof 25/^'. Troubled 
with hoarseness & some cough, ij^^k I called on Dr. Jack- 
son who told me that he had a consultation with Dr. Warren 
as to my going to a milderclimate; said Madeirahe thought 
best of; I did not understand they were quite settled as to 
the expediency; I told him I should rather have the com- 
forts of home to those of a better climate to live in & much 
prefer to die with those I most love; he said I should be 
advised by so many to go that I was likely to change my 
mind, but I think he agrees with me, to stay at home. 

DECEMBER 1^/. Bright morning; walked to Mr. 
Lawrence's & returning by Mr. Binney's Cottage, 
walking on the grass covered with snow, fell & scratched 
my face & bruised me considerably. 2«< I feel the fall of 
yesterday in my side. 4'^. Our friends are very kind in com- 
ing to see us ; W'" & wife walked to Longwood. 7/^'. The 
day promises well for the men covering in the new house.^ 
10'^. Mr. Faulkner called on his way from Fort Warren, 
at my House; very sorry not to see him. 13^^^. Letter from 
Mr. Faulkner & accounts (repetition) of news of capture 
of Mason & SHdell. 16'^^. We hear of the reception of the 
news of the Capture of the "Trent," with Mason & Slidell 
on board. 17'^. Much excitement in relation to our affairs 
with England, and to my surprise a talk of Suspending 

' Prescott Street, Longwood. 



246 William Appleton [1861 

specie payments; unnecessary, unwise & wicked under the 
circumstances. iS''^. I went before the Committee of Bos- 
ton Banks; they requested my view as to suspension, they 
had it freely. 19'^^. Nothing important by "Juror" from 
England but more excited. I sold salt peter for sixteen 
cents this day that I bought for eight within sixty days. I 
find my nervous system in a bad state, I lay awake at night, 
cannot keep awake in the day; no anxiety. 20'^. Our 
news as to war with England no change; we shall avoid 
it, I think. 21^^. Had a bad night; very little quiet sleep. 
I give up tea, snuff and all my comforts, but my religion, 
which I trust will sustain me while I am to sojourn on this 
earth. 24^^^. Went to the city and bought some Turkeys to 
give to those who had not them. Xmas, 1861. The Chris- 
tian World celebrates this day as the Anniversary of the 
birth of our Blessed Saviour. When we turn to the dis- 
tracted state of our Country; a million of men in arms, 
Brother against Brother, Father against Son, we pause. 
Does God permit the wicked, unruly passions of men to 
thus rule that some great good may come"? The ways of 
God are past finding out; we must humbly do our duty, 
and endeavour not to offend those we call the weaker 
brethren; I allude to the Republican Abolitionists; I can- 
not doubt there are among them honest men, but more 
vile politicians. 27'^. The accounts from Washington are 
alarming as to War with England. 28'^^. After dinner my 
dear William brought me the pleasing tidings that the 
"Trent" affair was arranged & the cause of War with Eng- 
land removed, which delights me more than I can express. 



i862] Diary 247 

29/^, Sunday. Very mild, took a long walk for me; rode an 
hour with my sister. 3F/. The accounts we have from the 
different sections of the Country show we do not want War 
with England. 

1862 

JANUARY 1^^ The year has been one of the greatest 
possible interest to almost all classes of our community. 
The War has called for the energies of the Country which 
in men & money have been brought forward without stint, 
nor has there been shown an unwillingness in supporting 
the Administration by many of us who do not belong 
to their political party, or feel much confidence in their 
wisdom. The Expenses of our Govt in my opinion taken 
from the i^t May, 1861, to May, 1862, will be more than 
five hundred million of dollars. The great amount of the 
expenditure is for the pay & support of the army & navy, 
and the large sums thus expended remain in the Country. 
There appears no distress among our Manufacturers, some 
of whom having contracts to supply clothing etc. for the 
Government are said to be making large fortunes, but 
when they close their contracts, the advance on raw ma- 
terial, and extension of their works may lessen their profits; 
our mechanicks find employment at near the last year's 
prices, so I find in the payment of bills for my house build- 
ing; what the present new year is to bring forth remains 
to be developed. If not interfered with by foreign govern- 
ments, we shall overrun the most valuable parts of the 
Country occupied by the Confederates and they may have 



248 William Appleton [1862 

to make the best terms they can. I regret to say that the 
passions of our community are so much excited that they 
would, I fear, if in their power, put arms in the hands of 
the slaves to destroy the whites; I hear it said by those 
who on most things would be considered of fair under- 
standing. The Clergy & educated men not of the very high- 
est order compose this order & a set of noisy, strong- 
minded girls & boys, with a few mothers to direct and give 
much advice to those who have means, as to how to use it. 
I have been particularly noticed through the newspapers 
for my giving aid to the rebels by sending Wine etc. to 
the prisoners at Fort Warren. Mr. Faulkner, who was for 
four years in Congress with me, & Mr. Eustis, son of 
my old friend Judge Eustis, were those to whom I gave 
comfort, which I was willing to defend on the basis of 
Christianity; common civility to those not condemned, 
and expediency. Those who wrote that I had better send 
my money to aid the poor invalid soldiers had not paid a 
dollar for the aid of the War, while I paid thousands. The 
settlement of the "Trent" Mason & Slidell affair relieves 
me much. We are going rapidly into paper currency. Prices 
of all kinds of stocks will advance materially; I cannot 
avoid taking an interest in the prices and speculations; I am 
endeavouring to show the younger part of the Merchants 
that an old man of seventy-five has energy left; at the same 
time I am thinking what I shall do with the profits on the 
Salt Peter & Pepper I have bought & sold. I shall give part 
to the public & the balance to my distant relatives, or^. 
We have a strong N.W. wind and cold. Mason, Slidell & 



i862] Diary 249 

Co. must have had a bad time in the gun boat. Had a very 
kind letter from Eustis; Mason and Slidell I did not no- 
tice, I do not think them honest. y^K I am provoked at the 
course the Banks & Government are taking in relation to 
specie. We are Hkely to have a bad currency, very Hkely, 
worse than bad. 8'^'. I have suffered, and have taken no 
food except tea or gruel for 48 hours. 9^^'. Went to Boston, 
quite feeble and irritable; sooner my house is in order the 
better; my faith is strong that I shall meet death as I now 
feel, without a dread. 10'^'. Went to the City; wrote my 
cousin Mrs. M^M. that I would aid her. Had a long talk 
with Dr. Jackson who says I have no disease to carry me 
off like Mr. N. Appleton, but I am not strong. If I cannot 
take food I cannot gain strength, but he evidently thinks 
I shall be out again in summer. 11^'''. Mrs. Dodge & Kitty ^ 
returned from Phil^, glad to see them back. All attention 
to me, 13^'^. Mr. Dexter writes me from Washington that 
some important movements are expected; they do not 
appear in full confidence. 15'''''. Rainstorm; not well, nor 
improving. Had a letter from David Stiles, my earliest 
acquaintance in Temple, in Mr. Wheeler's^ store with me, 
now poor but worthy; sent him money which he uses ju- 
diciously. 16'''''. Rain ceases & all is turned to ice, seldom 
better Sleighing; went to the City, at work with Mr. Hall 
on my Trust. 18'^'. Sent for Mr. Bartlett to come & see me, 

* Mrs. Burnham's daughter and granddaughter (now Mrs. A.Lawrence Hop- 
kins). 

*Artemus Wheeler "kept tavern and sold West India goods." Mr. Appleton 
lived with him. The house is standing and is owned by Miss Bessie S. Hayward. 
The store has gone; it stood on a part of what is now the village green. 



250 William Appleton [1862 I 

rode with him to his house. 20'^. Storm continues, went to 
City, but did not get out at our house. Quite feeble; mis- 
erable afternoon, — snow, hail & rain. 2F'. No change in 
the weather, snow, rain, hail, alternately, 22«< Went to the 
City, not long at the Office. Sold the sugar & most of Salt 
Peter. 23''< Mr. Bartlett handed me Trust papers, I gave 
them to Mr. Hall. 



The End 

of the Seven Volumes of Diaries 



HONORABLE William Appleton died in Long- 
wood at the home of his sister, Mrs. Burnham, Feb- 
ruary 15, 1862. 

Three days later "the funeral services were held at St. 
Paul's (Episcopal) Church at twelve o'clock, noon. A large 
number of the relatives and friends of the deceased, with 
many members of the City Government, were present. 
The remains . . . were carried from his late residence in 
Beacon Street to the church where they were received by 
the wardens and vestrymen. . . . The solemn burial service 
of the Episcopal Church was conducted by Rev. Dr. A. H. 
Vinton, Bishop Potter of Pennsylvania, Rev. Dr. Stone of 
Brookline and the Rector of St. Paul's. 

"After the ceremonies the body was accompanied to 
Mount Auburn by a very large company in carriages. The 
closing service of the Episcopal Church was read at the 
grave." 



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